EV Charger Insurance: Is It Covered by Home Policy?

With electric vehicles becoming a common sight on UK roads, many homeowners are choosing to install EV chargers on their properties. Having a home charging point makes life easier, reduces reliance on public chargers, and often saves money through cheaper overnight tariffs. But once installed, a natural question arises: is your charger protected by your existing home insurance policy? Understanding how insurers view EV chargers, what coverage typically applies, and whether you need additional protection will help you avoid unpleasant surprises if something goes wrong.

Are EV chargers classed as part of the home?

When you buy home insurance, the policy usually covers two broad areas: buildings and contents. Buildings insurance protects the physical structure of your property, including permanent fixtures such as kitchens, bathrooms, and outbuildings. Contents insurance covers personal belongings inside the home. Because EV chargers are fixed to your wall and wired directly into your electrical system, insurers generally treat them as fixtures. This means they usually fall under buildings insurance rather than contents cover. However, as with any insurance matter, policies differ, so it is vital to check the wording carefully.

Typical coverage under home insurance policies

In many cases, an EV charger will be protected under the same risks as the rest of your home. This can include fire, theft, vandalism, flooding, and storm damage. For example, if your charger is damaged in a house fire, the cost of repair or replacement should be covered. Likewise, if it is stolen from your driveway, you may be able to claim for its replacement. Some policies even cover accidental damage, such as if a vehicle knocks into the unit, though this depends on your level of cover. Always review your policy documents to understand what specific scenarios are included.

Exclusions and limitations to be aware of

While many home insurance policies now recognise EV chargers, there are still exclusions to watch for. Some insurers exclude electrical equipment damaged by power surges unless you have added optional extras to your cover. Others may refuse to pay out if the charger was not installed by a qualified professional or if it was modified in a way that invalidates its certification. Cosmetic damage, such as scratches or general wear and tear, is also unlikely to be covered. Understanding these exclusions ensures you know when you can rely on your policy and when you may need to pay out of pocket.

Installation requirements and compliance

One of the most important factors in ensuring your EV charger is covered by insurance is professional installation. Most insurers will expect the charger to have been fitted by an authorised installer in line with UK wiring regulations. If a fault occurs because of poor or unauthorised installation, your insurer may argue that the damage is not their responsibility. Keeping documentation such as installation certificates, electrical safety records, and receipts is crucial if you ever need to make a claim.

Optional extras and specialist insurance

Some insurers now offer EV-specific add-ons that provide extra protection for charging equipment. These may include accidental damage cover, enhanced theft protection, or even liability insurance if someone else’s vehicle is damaged while using your charger. Specialist EV insurance policies, which combine car and charger cover, are also emerging in the market. These can be useful for drivers who want a single, comprehensive policy that removes grey areas between car and home cover.

What if your charger is in a rented property?

For tenants, the situation can be more complex. If you installed the charger yourself with landlord approval, it is important to clarify who is responsible for insuring it. In many cases, the landlord’s buildings insurance will cover fixtures, including EV chargers, but this is not guaranteed. Tenants should check their tenancy agreement and speak to their landlord or letting agent. In some situations, you may need your own policy or an amendment to the landlord’s existing cover to ensure the charger is protected.

Claims process for EV chargers

If your charger is damaged or stolen, the claims process is similar to that for other home insurance claims. You will need to contact your insurer promptly, provide evidence of the incident, and submit supporting documents such as receipts and installation certificates. Some insurers may require an engineer’s report to confirm whether the charger is repairable or must be replaced. Excess payments still apply, so weigh up whether making a claim is worthwhile compared with the cost of replacement.

Does your home policy cover liability?

Another consideration is liability. What happens if a neighbour or visitor uses your charger and suffers damage to their vehicle or injury due to a fault? While most chargers are safe if installed correctly, liability questions can arise. Many home insurance policies include public liability cover, which protects you if a third party suffers injury or damage on your property. However, some policies may exclude claims related to electrical equipment or charging. If you plan to allow others to use your charger, it is worth checking whether your policy provides adequate protection.

The future of EV charger insurance

As the number of home chargers grows, insurers are updating their policies to reflect new risks. Some now ask specifically about EV chargers during the application process, while others include them automatically as part of standard buildings insurance. As technology develops, cover is likely to become more consistent across the industry. For now, though, homeowners should not assume that their charger is automatically covered. Checking the small print and asking your insurer directly are the best ways to ensure you are protected.

Practical steps to protect your investment

Even with insurance in place, prevention is always better than cure. Protecting your charger by installing it in a secure location, using a lockable unit if available, and keeping it well maintained can reduce the risk of damage and theft. Registering your charger with the manufacturer and updating its software also help prevent issues. By combining good maintenance with appropriate insurance cover, you can ensure your charger continues to serve you reliably and is protected against unexpected costs.

Conclusion

Most home insurance policies in the UK treat EV chargers as fixtures, meaning they are covered under buildings insurance for risks such as fire, theft, and storm damage. However, exclusions apply, particularly if the charger was not professionally installed or if the damage results from misuse or wear and tear. Tenants face additional considerations and may need to clarify cover with their landlord. As EV adoption increases, insurers are adapting, but it remains essential to check your policy carefully. By keeping records, ensuring professional installation, and considering optional extras, you can protect your charger and enjoy the benefits of home charging with confidence.