Climate Change and the Push for Electric Vehicles

Poor air quality and the looming threat of climate change are accelerating the shift toward electric vehicles (EVs). The UK Government recently doubled its funding for on-street EV charging and is proposing changes to Building Regulations to make EV charging points more accessible. The goal is for every new residential building with a parking space to include an EV charging point. These changes will also apply to buildings undergoing a material change of use to create a dwelling.

The Department of Transport Consultation

While these initiatives sound promising, there’s a gap in the Department of Transport’s consultation paper. It doesn’t address existing residential properties or blocks of flats. Most flat owners won’t benefit from new on-street charging, particularly in areas where parking is already limited. The consultation does suggest that buildings undergoing major renovation with more than 10 parking spaces should have cables routed to every space for future charging points. However, there are no solutions offered for older blocks or specific issues faced by leasehold properties, such as how to work around restrictions in lease covenants or who should bear the cost of new charging points.

Challenges for Leasehold Properties

The consultation fails to address several crucial issues for leasehold property owners, such as:

• How to navigate development restrictions and lease covenants
• Who should pay for the installation of new charging points
• How to allocate the costs fairly among residents
  These questions remain unresolved, making it difficult for many residents in older buildings to access EV charging infrastructure.

The Need for Advocacy in the Residential Block Sector

Jamie Willsdon, director of EV charging solutions provider Future Fuel, has raised these concerns with the Department of Transport, hoping the residential block sector will advocate for leaseholders. He’s disappointed that the latest consultation did not address the needs of multi-dwelling residential blocks. He is determined to work with industry leaders to press the government to recognize the importance of this issue for flat owners.

Potential Benefits of EV Charging Points for Landlords and Residents

Adding EV charging points to residential blocks could provide significant benefits. For landlords, it could enhance property value and kerb appeal. For residents, it would make owning a hybrid or electric vehicle far more feasible, addressing both convenience and environmental concerns.

Get Involved in the Debate

This issue won’t resolve itself without collective action. We fully support Jamie’s call for the Department of Transport to take the needs of flat owners seriously. If you’re passionate about this topic, consider contributing to the ongoing debate. Don’t forget to respond to the consultation before 7 October to make your voice heard. You can download the consultation here.