WHAT DO INSURERS THINK ABOUT EV CHARGERS IN STRATA BUILDINGS?

As electric vehicles surge (pun intended) in popularity across Australia, both existing and new development strata buildings are still grappling with the need to support this transition and the potential implications with insurance. The question is no longer if EV charging should be implemented, but how?

We’ve reached out to a number of major strata insurers, and as of Q3 2025, requirements for EV charger installations remain inconsistent across the industry. However, a few key themes have emerged.

Electric vehicles are now a core part of modern day living, and strata communities must adapt to the growing demand

Key Insurance Considerations

The general message from insurers is :

• The Building Sum Insured (BSI) must be reviewed and increased to account for the cost of strata-owned EV chargers.

• All chargers must be professionally installed and maintained, with adequate fire protection.

• Equipment must be used in accordance with manufacturer guidelines.

Aside from an increased BSI, most insurers report minimal impact on premiums for having EV chargers installed -for now.

However, some insurers may refuse cover if chargers are installed in a car park basement, citing concerns that a fire at the base of the complex could endanger all occupants. Therefore, placement of the EV chargers matters.

Below is a list of recommendations from the major strata insurers we spoke with:

• Disclose the number of charging stations present to the insurer.

• The EV chargers meet the relevant Australian Standards (EESS/RCM).

• The installation was carried out by licensed and qualified electricians, who were specifically trained for the job in accordance with AS 3000-2018.

• Ensure there a dedicated charging area with proper signage on how to operate the EV chargers, along with adequate emergency information.

• Each EV charger needs to have a Residual Current Circuit Breaker (RCBO) installed.

• Ensure there is a manufacturer’s maintenance program in place for the EV chargers, the strata must also define who is responsible for maintenance.

• The BSI needs to be amended include the chargers - assuming the chargers are hard wired and strata owned i.e. if owner moves out, the charger remains.

• Ensure the current main switchboard can handle any additional load with the EV chargers being installed, or upgrade the switchboard to AS 61439-2016 accordingly.

• Keep any combustible materials or storage at least 5m away of the charger or EVs being charged.

• Ensure that easily accessed, adequate fire protection is in place (electrical fire rated) and maintained accordingly.

Different fire risks require different fire protection i.e. water extinguishers are not recommended for wooden or paper type combustible materials

EV chargers being fitted to strata is an evolving situation and we should l see clearer guidelines s from insurers in the future. Please contact us if there are any questions specific to your strata or situation.