If you have an electric vehicle (EV) or are thinking about getting one, it's natural to have questions about safety - especially when charging at home. The good news is that, for most households, EV charging is very safe when it's set up and used correctly. Understanding the risks and how to manage them will help you protect your home and everyone in it.
How big is the fire risk?
EV fires are rare. In face, electric vehicles are less likely to catch fire than petrol or diesel cars.
However, when fires do happen, they can be more intense and harder to put out. That's why it's important to understand how to stay safe.
What can cause a fire?
Most risks aren't from the EV itself, but from how it's charged:
Incorrect wiring or unsafe set up can lead to overheating or faults.
EV chargers use a lot of power, which can strain older systems.
These aren't designed for EV charging and can overheat
Worn cables or water damage can create hazards
Cars affected by floods or accidents may be unsafe to charge.
What's being done to keep you safe?
UK rules are in place to reduce fire risks. Modern chargers include:
- Automatic shut-off if something goes wrong
- Protection against electrical faults
- Smart systems to manage energy use
If you're thinking of installing an EV charger, please ensure:
- You get our permission before installing a charger
- The installation is carried out by a NICEIC registered electrician
- The installation has the appropriate IP (Ingress Protection) rating for the location
- You let us know when it's installed so we can check the installed charger
You will be responsible for maintaining and servicing the installed charger.
Request to install an EV charger
Simple ways to stay safe
You can reduce risk by following a few key steps:
- use certified installer
- don't use extension leads
- check cables and equipment regularly
- keep the area around your charger clear and dry
- don't charge a damaged vehicle
The bottom line
Home EV charging is safe for most households when it's done properly. The biggest fire risk isn't the vehicle - it's how the charger is installed and use. With the right setup and a few simple checks, you can charge your EV safely and with confidence.