EV charging contract checklist: questions before you sign

Ask every provider the same questions and get the answers in writing, so you can compare offers on equal terms. Tick each one as you go, then save or print the list.

General information to help you compare offers, not legal or financial advice. Have a solicitor read the agreement before you sign.

What the offer pays forDoes the price or funding include the survey, groundworks, cabling and making good the surface?Does it include the electricity network connection and any upgrade, or only the chargers?Who pays if the network operator asks for more work than the survey expected?Are signs, bay markings, lighting and commissioning included?

How your income is worked outIs your share of revenue or a fixed rent? If a share, is it before or after energy, software and card fees?Who sets the price drivers pay, and can you see it change?How often are you paid, and what statement shows the sessions and energy behind each payment?Who pays for the electricity the chargers use, and how is it metered?

Contract length and exitHow long is the agreement, and does it start at signing, installation or switch-on?Is there a break clause, and what does leaving early cost?Is it exclusive? Can you add other chargers or solar later?What happens at the end: removal, making good, buying the equipment, or renewal?What happens if you sell the site, or your lease ends first?

Repairs and runningWho fixes a fault, and what response and repair times are written into the contract?Who do drivers call when a charger fails, and is that line open at all hours?Who insures the equipment and covers liability for damage or injury?For public chargers, how does the provider meet the Public Charge Point Regulations 2023?

Your bays and your customersCan you keep charging bays for customers or guests, or limit hours?Who enforces parking in the bays, and on what terms?Can you choose where the chargers go, and see the layout before signing?

Permissions and costs on your sideWho gets planning permission, landlord consent and any building control sign-off?Will the chargers be rated for business rates, and who pays?Does the agreement need a lease or easement, and who pays the legal costs?

Choose 'Save as PDF' in the print window to keep a copy.

Sources

The Public Charge Point Regulations 2023 (legislation.gov.uk)

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