EV Charging for London Flats Without a Drive

Many Londoners live in flats or terraced houses with no drive, yet still want an electric car. Charging without off street parking is possible, but the options are different from a simple home charger on a drive. This guide sets out the main choices and where an electrician can help.

Never trail a cable across the pavement

Running an extension lead or charging cable out of a window and across the pavement is a trip hazard and can leave you liable if someone is hurt. Domestic extension leads are also not designed for many hours of charging at high current. If you have no drive, use one of the options below instead.

Public on-street chargers

Many London councils have installed lamp post chargers and kerbside charge points on residential streets. They are usually the easiest option for flat owners and renters. Check your council's website or a charge point map to see what is near you, and ask the council about new points if there are none on your street.

Cross-pavement channels

Some councils now allow a cable channel set into the pavement, so a charger on the front of your house can reach a car parked at the kerb. This always needs the council's permission, and the rules differ between boroughs. If your council allows it, we can fit the charger and the dedicated circuit on the house side.

Shared car parks at blocks of flats

If your block has a car park, the freeholder or managing agent may agree to chargers in some or all bays. This usually needs a check of the building's supply, and sometimes a separate supply for the car park. Our guide to EV charger grants and building regulations for flats covers the funding side.

Charging at work

If your employer has parking, workplace chargers can cover most of your weekly driving. Our post on workplace EV chargers for small London businesses explains how they work.

Get advice for your street or block

Energy North Ltd installs home, workplace and shared car park chargers across North, East and West London with City & Guilds certified electricians. See our EV charger installation page to ask about your property.