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Electric vehicle charging: What it means for home and motor insurance

As electric vehicles (EV) become increasingly common in UK households, understanding how EV charging affects both home and motor insurance is essential. Charging equipment introduces new questions about cover, liability, and claims, especially where home and motor policies may overlap.

This good practice guide supports insurers with clear principles and practical scenarios, while helping EV owners quickly identify which policy applies, making the claims process simpler for everyone.

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FAQs

Which insurance policy typically covers damage to a fixed EV charger at home?

Damage to a fixed (hard-wired) EV charger, including its cable if it’s a tethered unit, is generally covered under the buildings section of a home insurance policy -provided the charger is affixed to the building, and the cause of damage isn’t excluded (e.g., wear and tear, faulty workmanship, or design). Motor insurance does not cover damage to chargers affixed to the building.

Are untethered charging cables or portable charging equipment covered by home or motor insurance?

Untethered charging cables and portable charging equipment are usually not covered under home insurance (buildings or contents), as they are considered motor accessories. However, they may be covered as accessories under a fully comprehensive motor insurance policy, subject to common exclusions like faulty workmanship or design.

How is liability determined for third-party injury or property damage involving EV chargers?

Liability for third-party injury or property damage depends on whether the incident arises from the ‘use’ of the charger or vehicle:

  • If the charger is being used to charge the vehicle and the incident occurs on a road or public place, motor liability insurance typically responds.
  • If the incident does not arise from the ‘use’ of the charger or vehicle (e.g., someone trips over a charger not in use), occupiers’ or personal liability cover under home contents insurance may respond.
  • The specific circumstances and legal position on liability will determine which policy applies.

What should insurers do if a claim may be covered by another insurer’s policy?

Insurers should:

  • Contact the customer and request permission to refer the claim to another insurer.
  • Clearly communicate with the other insurer, providing full details (policyholder, incident, type of damage/injury, supporting evidence, and rationale).
  • Follow up if no response is received, keep records of communications, and collaborate to resolve the claim promptly, ensuring compliance with regulatory requirements and good customer outcomes.

Do current insurance policies always specify cover for EV charging-related losses?

Many policy wordings remain ‘silent’ on losses and liabilities arising from EV charging. Customers may need to interpret whether a loss is covered by reviewing the circumstances against their policy wording. Insurers are encouraged to update policies to specifically address EV charging issues, such as including or excluding chargers and cables in home policies, and clarifying coverage for untethered charging cables in motor policies.