EV Charging at Mews Houses and on Narrow London Streets

London's mews houses and homes on narrow streets often have a garage or a small parking space right at the front door. That can make home EV charging easier than in a typical terrace, but there are a few things that are particular to these streets: shared cobbled lanes, conservation area rules, private mews ownership and tight space for the charger. This post explains what to check.

Who owns the mews

Some mews are public highway, while others are privately owned or managed by a residents' company or estate. If the lane is private, you may need permission before fixing anything to the front of the house or running a cable to a parking space. Check your title deeds or ask the managing agent.

Conservation areas and listed buildings

Many London mews sit in conservation areas, and some houses are listed. A charger on the front elevation may need planning permission or listed building consent. Choosing a compact, neutral-coloured unit and mounting it inside the garage or in a discreet position often helps. Check with your council before booking.

Charger inside the garage

If you have an integral garage, mounting the charger inside is often the neatest option. It keeps the charger out of sight and out of the weather. Make sure the garage door can close with the cable plugged in if you charge with the door down, or choose a charger position that suits how you park.

Cable routes on cobbled lanes

• Never run a charging cable across a shared lane or pavement where people walk.
• If the parking space is not directly against the house, a post-mounted charger with a buried supply cable may work, but digging into cobbles needs permission and careful reinstatement.
• Keep the charger out of the way of passing cars, bins and deliveries.

See our guide on post or wall mounted chargers.

Shared spaces and neighbours

If you share a parking area with neighbours, agree arrangements in writing. Our post on charging on a shared driveway covers this. If you have no off-street space at all, see our guide to charging without a driveway.

Energy North Ltd installs chargers at mews houses and period homes across North, East and West London with City & Guilds certified electricians. See our EV charger installation page to book a survey.