Safety note: Do not remove the electrical-panel cover or open energized equipment to collect information. Clear photos of the closed panel, labels, and surrounding area are normally enough for the first conversation.
Vehicle and charger details
Record the vehicle model, expected delivery date, daily driving distance, and how long the vehicle will usually remain parked overnight. If a charger has already been selected, keep its model number, installation manual, maximum current, cable length, connector type, and networking requirements available. These details help distinguish between a basic charging need and equipment that may require a larger dedicated circuit.
Parking and cable route
- Photograph the parking position, nearby walls, and the intended charger location.
- Note whether the installation is indoors, outdoors, detached from the house, or shared with another parking space.
- Identify finished walls, ceilings, driveways, landscaping, or fire-rated assemblies along a possible cable route.
- Measure approximate distance only when it can be done safely; the electrician will confirm the final route.
Panel and future loads
Provide a photo of the panel door, the circuit directory, the main-breaker rating, and any equipment labels visible without opening covers. Mention electric heating, heat pumps, hot tubs, pools, workshops, secondary suites, or other planned loads. The assessment may consider panel space, service capacity, load management, protection, outdoor equipment ratings, and whether an electrical-service change is actually necessary.
Questions for the written scope
Ask what charger and circuit size are proposed, where equipment will be mounted, how the cable will be protected, whether trenching or restoration is excluded, what shutdown time is expected, and which permits or inspections apply. Confirm who will configure smart features and what documentation will be provided at handover.