Who is Responsible for an EV Charger in a Rental Property? Landlord or Tenant?

If you rent out a property with an electric vehicle (EV) charger, the responsibility for maintaining and repairing it typically falls under the landlord’s duties, similar to other electrical installations in the property. Here’s a breakdown:

Landlord’s Responsibilities:

• Installation and Safety: Ensuring the EV charger is safely installed by a qualified professional.
• Maintenance and Repairs: Maintaining the charger in safe working order, including necessary repairs.
• Electrical Safety Checks: The EV charger would be part of the property’s electrical system, but typically would not be included in the Electrical Installation Condition Report (EICR) completed every five years. It’s best thought of as a specialist appliance, and subject to additional tests in the same respect as PAT for any appliances left with the tenants.
• Compliance: Ensuring that the charger meets all relevant safety standards and regulations.

Tenant’s Responsibilities:

• Proper Use: Using the charger in accordance with the manufacturer’s instructions.
• Reporting Issues: Informing the landlord of any faults or damages as soon as they arise.
• Costs of Electricity: Tenants would typically pay for the electricity used through their electricity bill.

Additional Considerations:

• It’s advisable to include clauses related to the EV charger in the tenancy agreement to avoid disputes.
• If the charger is damaged due to misuse by the tenant, the cost of repairs could be charged to them, similar to other fixtures and fittings.

Renting out a property that has an EVC installed? Here’s a draft clause for a tenancy agreement regarding an EV charger:

Electric Vehicle Charger Clause

1. Ownership and Maintenance: The electric vehicle (EV) charger installed at the property is owned by the landlord. The landlord is responsible for maintaining the charger in good working order and ensuring it complies with all relevant safety standards and regulations.

2. Tenant Responsibilities: The tenant is responsible for the proper use of the EV charger in accordance with the manufacturer’s instructions. Any damage caused to the charger due to misuse, negligence, or unauthorised modifications by the tenant will be the tenant’s responsibility, and the cost of repairs may be charged to the tenant.

3. Electricity Costs: The tenant is responsible for all electricity costs incurred through the use of the EV charger. These costs will be reflected in the tenant’s electricity bill unless otherwise agreed in writing.

4. Reporting Faults: The tenant must promptly report any faults, damages, or issues with the EV charger to the landlord. The landlord will arrange for any necessary repairs within a reasonable timeframe.

5. Alterations: The tenant may not make any alterations or replacements to the EV charger without the prior written consent of the landlord.

This clause helps protect both parties by clarifying responsibilities. Feel free to use or edit as you see fit.