Installing a home EV charger counts as a modification to your property. Here's what you need to know about insurance implications.
The Short Answer
Yes, you should tell your home insurer about your EV charger installation.
Most policies require you to notify them of changes to your property. Failure to disclose could affect future claims.
Why Notification Matters
Policy Requirements
Most home insurance policies require you to inform the insurer about:
An EV charger qualifies as a property alteration and electrical installation.
What Could Happen If You Don't Notify
| Scenario | Risk |
|---|---|
| Fire involving charger | Claim could be reduced or refused |
| Electrical damage | Insurer may dispute liability |
| Any claim | Insurer could cite non-disclosure |
The risk is low, but the consequence could be significant. Notification takes minutes and avoids potential problems.
What Insurers Typically Ask
Common Questions
| Question | Typical Answer |
|---|---|
| What is being installed? | EV charging point / wall box |
| Who is installing it? | OZEV-approved installer / certified electrician |
| Does it meet regulations? | Yes — Part P compliant, with certificate |
| What is its value? | £500–1,000 typically |
| Where is it located? | External wall / garage |
What They Want to Know
Insurers are checking:
Will My Premium Increase?
In Most Cases: No
Most insurers don't increase premiums for EV chargers:
When Premium Might Increase
Rare cases where premium could be affected:
What Most People Experience
| Outcome | Frequency |
|---|---|
| No premium change | Most common |
| Small increase (£10–20/year) | Occasional |
| Significant increase | Rare |
| Premium decrease | Rare but possible (adds value) |
How to Notify Your Insurer
What to Have Ready
| Document | Why |
|---|---|
| Electrical installation certificate | Proves proper installation |
| Charger details (make/model) | For their records |
| Installer details | OZEV-approved status |
| Installation location | External/garage/etc. |
| Cost of installation | For value purposes |
How to Notify
Options:
Tips:
What to Say
"I'd like to notify you that I've had an EV charging point installed at my property. It was installed by an OZEV-approved electrician and I have the Part P certificate. Is there anything else you need from me?"
What About Contents Insurance?
Charging Cable
Your charging cable (if untethered/portable):
The Charger Unit
The charger itself:
What About Car Insurance?
Separate Consideration
Car insurance:
Some car insurers ask:
Professional Installation Is Key
Why Proper Installation Matters for Insurance
| Aspect | Proper Installation | DIY/Improper |
|---|---|---|
| Insurance compliance | Met | Potentially not |
| Safety standards | BS 7671 compliant | Unknown |
| Certificate | Yes | No |
| Claim validity | Strong position | Weakened position |
What "Proper" Means
A compliant installation includes:
Common Questions
"What if I installed it myself?"
DIY electrical work is risky for insurance:
Recommendation: Have a qualified electrician inspect and certify if DIY.
"Do I need to notify for a three-pin charger?"
Technically no — you're just using an existing socket.
But consider:
"What about the charger warranty?"
Separate from insurance:
"Can my insurer refuse to cover the charger?"
Very unlikely with proper installation:
If they refuse:
Checklist
Before Installation
After Installation
Summary
| Question | Answer |
|---|---|
| Must I notify insurer? | Yes — policy typically requires it |
| Will premium increase? | Usually no |
| What do they need? | Installation certificate, basic details |
| Is proper installation important? | Yes — for safety and insurance |
| Is this complicated? | No — a quick call or email |
The Bottom Line
Notify your insurer — it's quick and easy. A 5-minute phone call protects you from potential claim complications later. Most insurers are familiar with EV chargers, won't increase your premium, and simply note it on your file.
The key is having a properly installed, certified charger. With professional installation and proper documentation, there should be no issues with your home insurance.
It's one of those "better safe than sorry" tasks that takes minimal effort but provides peace of mind.