A looped supply is where two neighbouring homes share a single service cable, each taking a feed from it. It was a normal way to connect some estates. It becomes a problem when both homes want a high load such as an EV charger, because the shared cable was not designed for two 32 amp chargers plus the rest of two houses. The network operator has to assess it. Many operators will unloop as part of enabling works, on their own timetable.
Looped supplies and home EV chargers
You often cannot see a loop from the pavement. The clue may be in network records, a shared service, or a refusal when the installer notifies the charger. Neighbours installing at the same time are the moment it surfaces.
- A loop feeds more than one dwelling from one cable
- Two chargers on a loop are a network question
- Unlooping is the operator's work
- Pause the install if the records are unclear
Looped supplies and home EV chargers: questions for the first visit
Tell the installer if you know the house was built in a batch of similar semis, and if next door already has a charger. Do not start by digging a trench.
How looped supplies and home EV chargers moves the job
Unlooping can be quick or it can wait on a street cable. The charger install may have to pause. There is sometimes no extra charge for the unloop itself and a clear extra cost if something else on your side is undersized. Get that split in writing.
What goes wrong with looped supplies and home EV chargers
The mistake is paying for a wallbox and a new consumer unit before anyone has checked the service, then storing a charger in the garage for months. Another mistake is blaming the installer for a network constraint.
Point at looped supplies and home EV chargers in the pack
Ask the quote to state that the service will be checked for looping, who contacts the operator, and what happens to your deposit if the network delays the date.
Frequently asked questions
Can I just fit a smaller charger?
A lower rate may be accepted in some cases and refused in others. The operator decides. Do not assume 3.6 kW is an automatic bypass.
Does my neighbour have to agree?
Unlooping work may need access. The operator manages that process. A private deal about a shared charger is a different, usually worse, idea.
How long does unlooping take?
It varies by region and by whether the street cable is adequate. Ask the operator's current lead time rather than a national average.
Will I be told on the certificate?
The electrical certificate covers the installation. The network job has its own reference. Keep both.
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.