Why Airbnb hosts should consider a home EV charging station

After a long drive, the last thing guests want is to search for a charging point. As electric vehicle use grows, travellers are paying closer attention to accommodation that makes charging simple. For Airbnb hosts, guesthouse owners, and holiday-let operators, installing a dedicated EV charger can remove this headache and give EV drivers one more reason to book.

Airbnb data backs this up. Searches using its EV charger filter increased by more than 80% between 2022 and 2023, showing that charging is becoming a real consideration for guests when choosing where to stay.

Against this backdrop, here’s what accommodation providers need to know about EV chargers. First let's start with the basics:

What is a home EV charging station?

A home EV charging station is a dedicated charge point installed at a residential property. Instead of relying on a standard household socket, EV drivers can use a purpose-built charger designed to charge their vehicle more safely and efficiently.

For Airbnb hosts, this usually means installing a charger in a driveway, private parking space, or designated guest parking area. Guests can then plug in during their stay, which makes charging feel like part of the accommodation experience rather than another errand to plan around.

Many home EV charging stations are now smart chargers. These connect to Wi-Fi or mobile data, allowing the charger to be managed through an app or online dashboard. Depending on the model, hosts may be able to:

• Control who uses the charger
• View charging activity
• Set charging schedules
• Get a clearer picture of electricity usage

For holiday-let owners, that extra visibility can make it easier to offer EV charging without losing track of costs or access.

The benefits of a home EV charging station for Airbnb hosts

1. It makes your property more appealing to EV drivers

As we've already mentioned, EV drivers are more likely to notice properties that support the way they travel. If your listing clearly states that EV charging is available, your Airbnb can stand out against similar stays nearby, especially if local public charging options are limited.

2. It can help your listing appear in relevant searches

Airbnb allows guests to filter properties by EV charger availability. Adding this amenity to your listing can help your property appear in searches from guests who specifically need charging during their stay.

3. It adds long-term value to your property

A professionally installed charge point can support your holiday-let business today while making the property more appealing in the long run. For guests, it adds a practical feature that makes their stay easier. For owners, it can help future-proof the property as travel habits continue to change. As EV ownership grows, guests are likely to see charging as a more standard feature, especially when booking properties with private parking.

How much does EV charging cost Airbnb hosts?

EV charging costs aren't the same for every stay. A guest who only needs a small top-up before driving home will use far less electricity than someone staying for a week and charging every night. Your electricity tariff, the type of vehicle, and the amount of charge needed all play a part.

The good news is that hosts don't have to leave this to guesswork. A clear charging policy can make the experience simple for guests while helping you stay in control of costs.

Some hosts include EV charging in the stay. This can work well for short breaks where guests are unlikely to use much power. Others add a fixed charging fee, especially for longer stays or properties where guests may rely on the charger more often.

Alternatively, a fair-use allowance can be a practical middle ground. This means guests can use the charger for a reasonable amount of energy during their stay, such as a top-up after arrival or enough charge for local journeys. If they need to charge more heavily, you can make it clear that extra usage may be charged separately. This gives guests useful flexibility while protecting hosts from unexpectedly high electricity costs.

Can Airbnb hosts charge guests for EV charging?

Airbnb hosts may be able to charge guests for EV charging, but any fee should be made clear before guests book.

Airbnb’s guidance says optional add-ons should be disclosed in the listing before booking and collected through Airbnb’s approved payment process, so hosts should check the latest rules before adding a separate EV charging fee.

A simple listing note could say:

EV charging is available at the property. A fair-use allowance is included for short stays. Additional usage may be charged through Airbnb’s approved payment process.

Clear pricing makes the whole experience easier for everyone. Guests know what to expect before they arrive, and hosts are less likely to face awkward conversations or unexpected costs later. It helps EV charging feel like a helpful part of the stay, rather than a confusing extra.

How Airbnb EV charger installation works

Installing a home EV charger at an Airbnb is usually straightforward, especially when the property already has off-street parking.

A professional installer will usually:

• Check your property’s electrical setup
• Review the best location for the charger
• Recommend a suitable charger model
• Install the charge point safely
• Test the charger after installation
• Explain how to use the app or controls
• Advise on simple guest instructions

The right charger will depend on your property, parking layout, electricity supply, and how you want guests to access it.

Make your Airbnb more EV-friendly

For guests arriving by electric vehicle, on-site charging can make your property feel easier to book before they've even packed their bags. Instead of planning their stay around public charging stops, they can arrive knowing there's a simple way to recharge when they need to.

If you’re considering EV charger installation for your Airbnb, holiday let, or guesthouse in Kent, SGS Energy can recommend a safe, guest-friendly setup that works for your property.

Get in touch with SGS Energy today to book your EV charger installation survey.

FAQs

Should Airbnb hosts install a home EV charging station?

Airbnb hosts should consider installing a home EV charging station if they have off-street parking and want to appeal to guests who drive electric vehicles. It can be especially useful for holiday lets in rural, coastal, or high-demand travel areas.

How much does it cost to let guests charge an EV?

The cost depends on your electricity tariff, the guest’s vehicle, and how much energy they use. A small top-up may cost a few pounds, while a larger charge will cost more. Many hosts use a fair-use policy, fixed fee, or smart charger monitoring.

How should I promote EV charging on my Airbnb listing?

Add EV charging to your Airbnb amenities and mention it in the listing description. Include the charger type, parking location, access method, cost, and any fair-use rules.

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