Estate and letting agents are being urged to respond to a government consultation that could introduce new legal obligations for landlords and freeholders over electric vehicle (EV) charging installations.
The proposals would make it easier for tenants, leaseholders and shared owners in England to install EV chargers at properties with off-street parking. Under plans being considered, landlords and freeholders could face statutory deadlines for responding to installation requests. They may also have to explain why they refuse permission.
Propertymark is encouraging agents, particularly those managing leasehold properties, to have their say before the consultation closes on 16 December 2026.
New responsibilities for landlords and agents
The Ministry of Housing, Communities and Local Government and the Department for Transport are considering voluntary guidance and potential legislation. The aim is to prevent unreasonable refusals and delays when residents request permission to install chargers.
The proposals cover allocated and demised parking spaces, with the government also seeking views on communal parking arrangements. Residents would generally fund installations themselves, including any applicable permission fees. However, questions remain over responsibility for maintenance, electricity costs and removing chargers when tenancies end.
For letting and managing agents, the changes could mean additional administration, including handling applications, obtaining consent and recording decisions.
When could landlords refuse permission?
The consultation outlines several potential grounds for refusal, including insufficient electrical capacity, conflicts with lease terms, safety concerns and limited parking provision. Existing building-wide charging arrangements could also influence decisions.
Block managers may face particular challenges where installations require multiple approvals or upgrades to shared electrical infrastructure. Propertymark is urging agents to highlight practical difficulties, particularly where proposed response deadlines may prove unrealistic.
Implications for property sales and lettings
According to Propertymark, the proposals could also affect how agents market properties with allocated parking. The trade body points out that an allocated parking space does not automatically give a tenant or leaseholder permission to install an EV charger.
It advises agents to distinguish between properties with existing charging facilities and those where installation remains subject to approval. Agents should also establish who can use existing chargers, what costs apply and whether any additional permissions are necessary.
Grants available until March 2027
Government grants of up to £500 remain available towards eligible EV charger installations until 31 March 2027. Qualifying tenants and flat owners can apply for support. Landlords and property managers may also qualify where properties have private off-street parking.
Propertymark is calling on agents to submit responses to the consultation, particularly those with experience of managing installation requests or dealing with leasehold restrictions. The consultation closes on 16 December 2026. Agents can also share their views with Propertymark’s policy team at policy@propertymark.co.uk.
