Charging Ahead: Managing Electric Vehicle Risks for Property Owners

Electric vehicles (EVs) are reshaping transport, but with the shift comes a new risk landscape for property owners, facilities managers and insurers. At Vista NW, we believe being proactive now can help you safely capitalise on this electrified future.

Understanding the Risk: Fire is not more likely but it behaves differently

Surprisingly, EVs aren’t more likely to catch fire than traditional petrol or diesel cars.

However, when EV fires do occur, particularly those involving lithium-ion batteries, the threat is more complex:

• Thermal runaway: This is a critical failure mode in lithium batteries where cells heat uncontrollably, releasing gases and heat in an exothermic chain reaction.

• Intense energy release: EV battery fires can generate much higher heat output compared to conventional vehicle fires.

• Toxic by-products: Fighting a battery fire can produce hazardous gases and chemical runoff, which may harm both people and property.
  

A Layered Risk Management Strategy

To manage EV risks effectively, we recommend a holistic “layers of protection” approach:

1. Prevention

   • Regular inspection and maintenance of EV chargers and batteries

   • Use only qualified professionals for installation, compliant with recognised standards (e.g. IET Code of Practice)

2. Detection

   • Install heat or gas detection systems in enclosed or underground parking areas where EVs charge

   • Ensure early warnings through automatic fire detection linked to a monitored system

3. Compartmentation

   • Use fire-resistant barriers or fire-rated walls to isolate charging zones from other building areas

   • Increase structural resistance in car parks: more than the standard 15-minute fire rating may be needed

4. Suppression

   • Incorporate sprinklers or water­mist systems: while they may not extinguish a thermal runaway event, they can limit its spread and provide cooling protection.

   • Maintain emergency planning that considers power isolation and firefighting access.

5. Fire & Rescue Access

   • Design access routes specifically for rapid intervention.

   • Provide clear isolation switches and signage for responders.
     

Safe EV Infrastructure Design: Best Practices

Good design and careful installation are critical to safe EV charging infrastructure:

• Position chargers away from flammable surfaces or escape routes.

• Provide isolation switches that first responders can use to cut power safely.

• Use clear signage, adequate lighting, and impact protection around charging stations.

• Engage competent professionals for installation, choosing accredited contractors is essential.
  

Environmental & Liability Concerns

It’s not just fire risk: EV infrastructure can pose liability and environmental challenges:

• Runoff contamination: Water used during fire suppression may pick up hazardous chemicals from burnt battery materials.

• User safety: Cables, trip hazards, and access need to be managed so charging areas are safe and inclusive.

• Regulatory compliance: Charging installations must abide by building regulations, fire codes, and relevant electrical standards.
  

Actionable Steps for Risk Managers & Property Owners

To stay ahead of EV risk, here are practical steps you can take now:

• Include EVs in your fire risk assessments, don’t treat EV charging as a “nice to have” afterthought.

• Inspect chargers and cables regularly for wear or damage.

• Confirm your EV charging setup aligns with standards such as the IET Code of Practice for Electric Vehicle Charging Equipment Installation.

• Train your staff (or occupants) on EV-specific safety procedures, especially what to do in a fire scenario.

• Maintain safe spacing: allow at least 10 metres from combustible walls in car-park designs, where feasible.

• Consult fire & rescue services when designing EV charging areas, to ensure effective access and isolation plans.
  

Why this matters to Vista NW clients

Whether you own commercial property, operate a multi-storey car park, or manage residential buildings, EV infrastructure represents a strategic opportunity, but also a risk.

At Vista NW, we can help:

• Review and assess your current EV charging risk profile

• Design risk-mitigating infrastructure plans aligned to best practice

• Advise on insurance implications and whether your current cover adequately protects against EV-related losses

• Support ongoing risk management, inspections and fire-safety planning
  

In summary

Electric vehicles offer growth, sustainability, and long-term value. But without the right planning and protection, they could introduce serious fire and liability risks. The good news? With a layered, thoughtful risk-management strategy, those risks are manageable. At Vista NW, we’re ready to help you charge ahead safely and confidently.