Important Fire Safety Notice for Tenants | E-Bikes and E-Scooters: Lithium Battery Risks in Your Home

Man Fixing his eBike

Why this matters

This notice is to inform homeowners and tenants of a serious and growing fire risk associated with the storage and charging of e-bikes and e-scooters inside residential properties.

Lithium-ion batteries, commonly used in e-bikes and e-scooters, can overheat, catch fire, or even explode if damaged, overcharged, or charged with incompatible equipment. These fires are fast-spreading, toxic, and extremely difficult to extinguish, posing a significant threat to your safety, your neighbours, and the property.

🚫 What you must NOT do

Do not charge e-bikes or e-scooters overnight or while unattended

Do not store or charge them in communal areas, hallways, or escape routes

Do not use damaged batteries, chargers, or conversion kits

Do not tamper with or modify battery systems

What you MUST do

Only use the manufacturer-approved charger

Only use the manufacturer-approved battery

Whenever possible, charge e-bikes and e-scooters in designated charging areas or in outbuildings that are separate from the main building

Charge on a hard, flat, non-flammable surface – away from soft furnishings

Unplug immediately once fully charged

Check for signs of damage or overheating – if in doubt, stop using it

Store the device in a cool, dry place – never near heat sources

Your responsibility

As a homeowner or tenant, you are responsible for ensuring that your use of personal devices does not endanger the property or others.

We urge you to take this matter seriously. If you have any questions or concerns, please contact your insurance broker, landlord, or managing agent immediately.

Stay safe. Protect your home.

© 2025 Choice Insurance Agency Ltd.

Choice Insurance Agency Ltd is authorised and regulated by the Financial Conduct Authority and is entered on the Financial Services Register (https://register.fca.org.uk/s/) under reference 300183. We are an Underwriting Agency working in partnership with key brokers around the UK to place quality business with our panel of leading insurers. Registered in England and Wales number 4420555. Registered office: Unit 1, Victoria Central, 27 Victoria Avenue, Southend on Sea, SS2 6AJ.