How do you choose the right EV chargers for a commercial property?
1. Start with the users Employees, residents, visitors, fleet drivers and public users all have different charging behaviours and expectations. 2. Assess electrical capacity first Understand the site’s available capacity before deciding how many chargers to install or their power rating. 3. Match charger speed to dwell time Higher power is not always better. Workplace […]
What should you consider before installing commercial EV chargers?
1. Define the purpose Decide whether the infrastructure is for staff, residents, visitors, fleet vehicles or public use. This affects charger specification, access control and billing. 2. Understand your electrical infrastructure Carry out an electrical assessment early to understand available capacity, potential load management requirements and whether a DNO upgrade may be necessary. 3. Plan […]
How should managing agents manage EV chargers across multiple properties?
Standardisation reduces complexity One of the biggest operational challenges for managing agents is inconsistency. Different properties often inherit different charging systems over time. A typical portfolio might include: Each variation increases operational complexity. Standardising processes, even where hardware differs, can significantly improve efficiency. For example, every site might follow the same approach to: The objective […]
What should an annual EV charger inspection include?
Visual condition Inspect enclosures, fixings, labels, weather seals, bollards, impact damage, corrosion and signs of overheating. Charging cables and connectors Check cable insulation, connector pins, wear, damage and cable management. Electrical safety Verify protective devices, earthing, isolation arrangements, RCD operation where applicable and evidence of overheating or loose connections. Functional testing Confirm charging sessions, authentication, […]
Should commercial EV chargers be included within an EICR?
What does an EICR cover? The fixed electrical installation including circuits, protective devices and wiring supplying the charger. What does it not cover? Detailed examination of charger condition, connector wear, enclosure damage, software performance or operational functionality. Best practice Combine periodic EICRs with dedicated EV charger inspections for a more complete picture of infrastructure condition.
Do commercial EV chargers require annual inspections?
Why inspect annually? Regular inspections identify deterioration, damage, loose connections, environmental wear and operational issues before they develop into safety risks or costly failures. What influences inspection frequency? Manufacturer recommendations, operating environment, usage levels, site risk assessment and organisational maintenance policies should all be considered. Why documentation matters Inspection reports provide an auditable record that […]