As electric vehicles (EVs) continue to dominate the auto market making up nearly 8.6% of all new carsales in the U.S. in 2024 more homeowners are investing in electric car charger installation to make daily charging easier and more convenient. While buying the right charger is important, choosing the right electrician to install it is just as critical.
Improper installations can lead to safety hazards, voided warranties, code violations, and even costly damage to your home’s electrical system. To avoid such issues, asking the right questions before the work begins is essential. In this guide, we break down the key questions you should ask your electrician before proceeding with your EV charger installation.
1. Are You Licensed and Insured to Perform EV Charger Installations?
This should be your first and most important question. Working with a licensed electrician ensures that your installation will follow local electrical codes and safety standards. Proper insurance protects both parties in case of an accident or property damage.
Pro Tip: Ask for proof of both licensing and insurance before hiring.
2. Do You Have Experience with Electric Car Charger Installation?
Not all electricians are familiar with the nuances of EV charger installation, especially when it comes to Level 2 chargers that require 240V wiring and sometimes panel upgrades. Experience matters. A knowledgeable installer will know which permits are required, how to handle power load calculations, and what to do if your panel needs upgrading.
According to a 2024 report by the EV Infrastructure Council, over 60% of residential EV charger issues stem from poor installation practices so experience is a must.
3. What Permits Will I Need for This Installation?
Most jurisdictions require anelectrical permit before installing an EV charger. Depending on your city or HOA, you might also need a building permit or zoning clearance. A qualified electrician should know exactly what’s needed in your area and either assist with or handle the permit application process.
Not pulling the proper permits can result in fines, problems with insurance claims, or complications when selling your home.
4. Does My Electrical Panel Have Enough Capacity?
Your existing panel may or may not have the capacity to support a Level 2 charger. Ask your electrician to inspect the panel and perform a load calculation to determine if an upgrade is necessary.
Data point: Upgrading your panel to support an EV charger can cost between $1,000 and $2,500, depending on your home’s electrical setup and regional labor rates.
5. Where Do You Recommend Installing the Charger?
The location of your charger will impact convenience, efficiency, and safety. Ask your electrician about:
- The distance from the panel to the charger,
- Whether trenching or wall penetration is needed,
- Indoor vs. outdoor installation,
- Accessibility in extreme weather conditions.
A strategic placement minimizes installation costs and optimizes charging convenience.
6. Can You Provide a Cost Estimate with a Breakdown?
An experienced electrician should be able to give you a clear, itemized quote that includes:
- Labor,
- Materials,
- Permits,
- Any necessary upgrades (e.g., panel, conduit, wall mount).
This helps avoid surprise costs down the road. On average, a professional electric car charger installation costs between $500 and $2,000, depending on complexity and region.
7. How Long Will the Installation Take?
Most standard home installations can be completed in 4 to 8 hours, but this can vary based on complexity and permitting timelines. Understanding the timeline upfront allows you to plan ahead and ensures you won’t be without power or access to your garage during critical times.
8. Will the Installation Be Code-Compliant and Pass Inspection?
This may seem like a given, but it’s worth asking. Your electrician should be installing the charger to meet the latest National Electrical Code (NEC) standards and any applicable local codes. A reputable electrician will also schedule a final inspection to certify the job.
9. What Brand or Type of Charger Do You Recommend?
While some EV owners purchase their charger in advance, others may rely on the electrician for recommendations. Your installer may have insights into:
- Charger compatibility with your EV,
- Smart features (WiFi, app integration),
- Energy efficiency,
- Warranty options.
In 2024, the most popular chargers recommended by installers included Juice Box, ChargePoint, and Grizzl-E—all known for reliability and tech features.
10. Do You Offer a Warranty or Guarantee on Your Work?
Most professional electricians will offer a warranty on labor (typically 1–2 years), and many also provide support if something goes wrong shortly after installation. Always get this in writing.
Conclusion: Be Proactive, Not Reactive
Installing an EV charger is more than just plugging in a device—it’s a home electrical upgrade that requires careful planning and expert handling. By asking these ten essential questions, you’ll ensure that yourelectric car charger installation is not only safe and compliant but also efficient and future-ready.
A reliable electrician will appreciate your preparedness and offer transparent answers. In turn, you’ll gain peace of mind knowing that your EV charging setup is built to last.
