Key guidance 

• Conduct a fire and safety risk assessment before developing EV infrastructure. 

• Train staff and drivers on how to operate the equipment safely. 

• Ensure proper charger placement that meets insurance guidelines. 

• Improve fire safety measures where possible. 

• Tell your insurer about your future infrastructure plans. 

Insuring EV infrastructure

To get your EV charging infrastructure properly insured you’ll need to start with a good risk assessment to keep potential hazards in check.  

• Insurers often suggest placing chargepoints away from buildings to lower the risk of damage to buildings.  

• They also recommend using smart traffic management to prevent accidents.  

• Simple steps like clear signage and well-planned parking layouts can help reduce collisions and damage.  

Training drivers on safe charging practices is important as it helps keep things running smoothly and reduces the chances of costly mistakes. 

Depot charging infrastructure risks

Public sector depots face additional risks due to high vehicle density and operational complexity. Fire risks are significant, requiring more preventative measures compared to depots with just ICE vehicles. Potential safety measures include sprinkler systems, submersion tanks, and fire suppression drain infrastructure.  

Fire risk assessments should be conducted before you install chargepoints, and they should be installed away from combustible materials. Ideally, chargepoints should be positioned a minimum distance of: 

• ten meters from combustible walls 

• seven and a half meters from unprotected openings 

• ten meters from combustible storage 

Internal charging should be located near exits, preferably at ground level, and underground parking areas must have a 120-minute fire resistance rating with proper ventilation. 

Cable management is another factor to consider. Depots will need to plan charger placement and vehicle spacing carefully to prevent cables from becoming trip hazards or from getting damaged. Keeping cables tidy and out of the way improves safety and helps extend their lifespan; charging cables can be expensive, costing several hundred pounds to replace. 

Lastly, proper driver training is essential for fleet operators to ensure the safe and efficient use of EV charging infrastructure. Without adequate training, drivers may unintentionally create safety hazards or cause damage that can lead to costly repairs and insurance claims. 

Insurance benefits of driver training: 

• Lower claim risks 

Insurers assess risk based on safe practices. Well-trained drivers help reduce accidents, lowering the likelihood of claims related to damaged infrastructure or vehicle fires. Drivers with low claims records should be prioritised for EVs, as they present a lower risk. 

• Lower premiums 

Some insurance providers may require fleet operators to demonstrate safety measures, including driver training, for more favourable terms. 

• Reduced downtime and costs 

Fewer accidents and equipment failures mean fewer disruptions to operations and reduced repair costs. This benefits both your operating costs and your insurance premiums. 

Building standards and insurance considerations

Insurance providers may require adherence to specific building standards to qualify for coverage.  

• Dedicated EV charging zones with fire-resistant compartments may be required for commercial properties.  

• Charge point installers must use certified equipment that meets national standards.  

Liability risks include damage to third-party property, personal injury, and environmental hazards caused by fires or leaks.  

Organisations offering public or shared EV charging services may need additional liability coverage to address risks associated with user negligence or charger malfunctions.