Can You Charge an EV in a Multi-Storey Car Park?

Yes, you can charge an EV in a multi-storey car park, and it is now increasingly common. Many multi-storeys in UK town centres, shopping centres, and airports have installed charge points on some or all levels, typically offering AC fast charging at 7 kW to 22 kW. The process is the same as any other public charger: connect your cable or use a tethered lead, pay via the network app or contactless, and collect the car when you are done. For a full guide to using public chargers, visit our EV guides section where we cover payment methods, reliability, and what to do when a charger is in use.

Is it safe to charge in a multi-storey car park?

EV charging in an enclosed structure is safe when the equipment is properly installed and maintained. UK building regulations and fire safety guidelines have addressed EV charging in enclosed spaces, and reputable multi-storey operators follow relevant standards. There was early concern about EV fires in enclosed spaces, but it is worth noting that EV battery fires are statistically rare and the risk profile in a properly ventilated car park is considered manageable by fire safety authorities. That said, some older car parks have restricted or banned EV parking following individual risk assessments; always check the signage before entering with a charging need.

Which connector will I need?

Most multi-storey chargers in the UK use tethered Type 2 cables, which means the lead is built into the unit and you simply plug the other end into your car. If the unit is untethered, you will need to bring a Type 2 charging cable of your own. A small number of sites also offer CCS or CHAdeMO for DC rapid charging, but this is less common in multi-storeys than at motorway or dedicated rapid charging hubs. Check the location in a charging network app before you travel so you know what to expect and whether to bring your own cable.

How do I find and pay for a charger in a multi-storey?

Most major UK charging networks operate in multi-storey sites, including BP Pulse, Pod Point, GeniePoint, and others. Download the relevant network app in advance, or use a generic app such as Zap-Map to locate chargers and check their current status before arriving. Payment is typically via the app, by contactless card, or using an RFID card linked to a network account. Since 2023, public chargers over a certain power threshold in the UK are required to offer contactless payment, which has made access easier for occasional users who do not want multiple accounts.

• Check the network app or Zap-Map for real-time charger availability before arriving
• Register with the charging network in advance if you need an account for payment
• Have a contactless card as a backup where it is accepted
• Note the charger bay number in case you need to report a fault

What if all the EV bays are taken?

This is a genuine frustration at busy multi-storeys, particularly those with only a handful of dedicated bays. Some sites use physical bay blockers or camera enforcement to prevent non-EVs from parking in charge bays, but enforcement is not universal. If the EV bays are full when you arrive, you may need to park in a standard bay and wait, or move to a nearby alternative charging location. Apps that show real-time bay availability are helpful but not always perfectly accurate. Planning a stop at a site with more charging capacity, or arriving at less busy times, is the most reliable mitigation.

Are there any restrictions on EV charging in multi-storeys?

Some multi-storey operators have introduced restrictions on EV charging for reasons relating to fire safety assessments, structural concerns about the weight of larger EVs, or insurance requirements. These are not universal, but it is worth checking the signage or the car park operator's website before assuming all multi-storeys welcome EVs. Newer and recently refurbished car parks are much more likely to have proper EV infrastructure and clear policies. Older structures, particularly those built before EVs became mainstream, may have more restrictive policies.

How much does charging in a multi-storey car park cost?

Charging costs at multi-storey sites vary by network and location. Some are priced per kWh, some per minute of charging, and some as a flat session fee. Rates on public networks are generally higher than home charging on a good off-peak tariff, which is expected given the infrastructure and convenience costs involved. The car park operator may also charge for parking separately, though some bundle a parking allowance with a charge session. Always check the current rates on the charger screen or in the network app before starting a session, as these change and we cannot give accurate figures here.

Frequently asked questions

Can any EV charge in a multi-storey car park?

Most EVs can, provided the car park has compatible charging equipment. The most common connector at UK multi-storey chargers is tethered Type 2 for AC charging, which suits the majority of current UK models. If the unit is untethered, you need to bring your own Type 2 cable. Check the specific location in a charging app before you plan to charge there.

Do I need to bring my own cable to charge in a car park?

It depends on the charger unit. Tethered units have a cable built in, so you just plug in. Untethered units require you to bring your own cable, connecting the charger post to your car's inlet. Rapid DC chargers in car parks are almost always tethered. Check the charger type on a map app in advance, and keep a Type 2 cable in the car as a precaution.

Are EV chargers in multi-storeys reliable?

Reliability varies considerably between operators and individual sites. Some networks have significantly better uptime records than others. Checking real-time status on Zap-Map or the relevant network app before you arrive is the best way to manage the risk. If you find a faulty charger, report it to the network using the contact number displayed on the unit so it can be prioritised for repair.

Is EV charging allowed in all multi-storey car parks?

No. Some multi-storeys have restrictions based on fire risk assessments, structural weight limits, or operator policy. This is more common in older buildings. Look for signage at the entrance or check the car park operator's website. Newly built or refurbished multi-storeys are much more likely to have EV charging infrastructure and clear access policies.

How long does it take to charge in a multi-storey?

At a typical 7 kW AC charger, the car gains roughly 25 to 30 miles of range per hour, though this varies by vehicle. A two-hour shopping trip might add 50 to 60 miles, which is useful for supplementing your home charge. Some multi-storeys are installing faster 22 kW units, which can add range more quickly for cars that can accept that rate.

What should I do if a charger in a multi-storey is faulty?

Report it using the phone number or QR code on the charger unit. Most networks have a 24-hour helpline for faults. Note the charger ID number displayed on the unit, as this helps the network locate and prioritise the repair. If you need charge urgently, use your mapping app to find an alternative nearby before you run low.

Whether you are charging in a multi-storey, at a destination charger, or on your own drive, having the right cable ensures you can always plug in. Use our cable finder on the home page to confirm which connector your car uses, and browse our EV charging accessories for cable storage bags and protective adapters that are worth keeping in the car.