Two EV charger quotes are comparable only when they name the same outcome: charger model, tether or socket and length, cable route, consumer unit work, earthing method, isolator, making good, certification, network notification and VAT. A lower price that uses a shorter lead, skips a board, or excludes the pavement reinstatement is a different job. Put the quotes in a two-column list and force every line to exist on both.
Check compare EV charger quotes like for like before you accept a price
Ask each installer to mark up the same photo. If the routes differ, the prices should differ.
The price effect of compare EV charger quotes like for like
The cheapest compliant job is a sensible aim. The cheapest piece of paper is not. A missing certificate or a unit they will not warranty is not a saving.
A miss that shows up later: compare EV charger quotes like for like
The mistake is comparing a retailer's supply-only box with an installed turnkey price, or a grant-subsidised workplace quote with a home quote.
Write compare EV charger quotes like for like into the quote
Request a revised quote that fills any blank line rather than accepting a verbal 'yeah that is included'.
Compare EV charger quotes like for like
Watch exclusions. 'Assuming no board upgrade' is not a price. It is a wish.
- Same model and lead length
- Same route and board scope
- VAT and certificate included
- Exclusions written, not implied
Frequently asked questions
How many quotes?
Two or three survey-led quotes are enough for a house. Ten desktop guesses are not better.
Should I share quotes between installers?
You can say where the scope differs. An auction on an undefined scope just drops quality.
What if one includes a new board?
Ask the other whether they judged it unnecessary and why. One of them may have noticed a real defect.
Is the dearest the safest?
No. Read the scope. A high price can still be vague.
Core buying guides
Start with these high-intent guides, then dig into the rest of the library.
Related guides
Sources and further reading
How this guide was prepared
This guide was written by the Local EV Installers Editorial Team. We compare official guidance, legislation and established consumer information, separate general information from project-specific advice, and show publication dates and sources. We do not accept installer accreditation claims at face value.