New Rules Mean Not Every Electrician Can Install EV Chargers From 2026

A regulatory change coming into force in October 2026 means that electricians without a dedicated EV qualification will no longer be permitted to install home charging points under a competent person scheme.

The update comes from the Electrotechnical Assessment Specification (EAS) 2024, the industry framework that governs what electricians must demonstrate to self-certify electrical work under Building Regulations. For the first time, EV charger installation is being treated as a distinct work category — separate from general electrical work — with its own mandatory Level 3 qualification requirement. Manufacturer training, short online courses and two-day awareness certificates do not meet the standard.

NAPIT, one of the UK's leading competent person schemes, has confirmed that all registered businesses and individuals carrying out EV charger installations will need to hold the relevant qualification ahead of the October 2026 deadline. Leading schemes are already applying the requirement to new registrations and reassessments now.

For homeowners, the practical implication is straightforward: before booking an EV charger installation, check that the engineer holds a recognised Level 3 EV qualification such as the City & Guilds 2919-01. Without it, they should not be carrying out the work.

All engineers at Hobbs Electrical Group hold the City & Guilds 2919-01 and we are registered with NAPIT (No. 82220). If you're planning an EV charger installation across Hertfordshire, Bedfordshire, Buckinghamshire or London, get in touch for a survey.