E Bike and E Scooter Fire Risks: What Building Owners Need to Know in 2026

E bikes and e scooters have become a normal part of daily life. They are convenient, affordable and everywhere from student flats to apartment blocks and townhouse conversions. We see them every week in buildings across Chester and the wider region, and they are now one of the fastest growing causes of serious fire incidents in residential settings.

This article explains the risks, the behaviours that increase those risks, and the practical steps building owners and responsible persons should take in 2025.

1. Lithium batteries fail in unpredictable ways

The batteries used in e bikes and e scooters hold a lot of energy. When they fail, they can enter a state known as thermal runaway where the temperature rises rapidly and the fire becomes extremely intense. These fires spread quickly, create large volumes of toxic smoke and are very difficult to control. As you can see in this video:

Why this matters for you
Traditional firefighting equipment may not be effective. The focus must be on prevention, storage and monitoring.

2. Improvised charging is a major cause of fires

We frequently see residents charging batteries in bedrooms, corridors, kitchens and shared escape routes. Many use damaged chargers, cheap replacement batteries or multi plug adapters that were not designed for high loads.

What you can do

  • Provide clear guidance on where charging is allowed

  • Encourage residents to use manufacturer approved chargers

  • Highlight the risks of overnight charging

  • Add signage in communal areas to discourage charging in escape routes

Small behaviour shifts make a big difference.

3. Storage is often the biggest issue

Batteries are sometimes left in hallways, cupboards, lobbies, bin rooms or next to fire doors. These are some of the worst possible locations because they block escape routes and can rapidly fill a building with smoke if they ignite.

Good practice for you

  • Create safe designated storage areas where practical

  • Keep escape routes completely clear

  • Check common areas regularly

  • Include storage arrangements in your fire risk assessment

In some buildings the safest option is to ban storage in communal spaces entirely.

4. Charging rooms and secure lockers are becoming more common

Some buildings are now installing purpose built charging or storage spaces for e bikes. These may include fire resisting construction, smoke detection, automatic shut off points and secure racks.

What this means for you
You do not need a high tech solution in every case, but a safe and clear arrangement is essential. Buildings with frequent e bike use benefit from dedicated areas that reduce risk and prevent clutter.

5. Clear resident communication is essential

Many residents do not realise the severity of lithium battery fires. A short guidance note or welcome pack briefing goes a long way.

What to communicate

  • Do not charge batteries in escape routes

  • Do not leave chargers running when unattended

  • Keep batteries away from heat sources

  • Stop using a battery if it is damaged, swollen or hot

  • Only use approved chargers and parts

Making this information visible reinforces good habits.

6. Include e bike risks in your fire risk assessment

E bike and e scooter activity has changed the risk profile of many buildings. A strong assessment will consider storage, charging, resident behaviour, escape routes and any suitable mitigation.

What this means for you
Including this topic in your assessment helps demonstrate proactive management and gives insurers and fire services evidence of your control measures.

Conclusion

E bike and e scooter fires are rare but severe. For many buildings the risk now sits within everyday behaviour rather than specialist equipment. With clear guidance, sensible storage plans and regular monitoring, responsible persons can manage this effectively and protect both residents and the building.

Fletcher Risk is based in Chester and supports property managers, landlords and building owners across the wider region. If you would like advice on e bike management or want to incorporate these risks into your fire risk assessment, we are here to help.

Disclaimer

This article is for general information only. It does not provide legal advice or replace a formal fire risk assessment. Every building is different and responsible persons should seek professional guidance tailored to their property. Fletcher Risk accepts no liability for actions taken based on this summary without a full assessment of the site.

Fletcher Risk Team - 5 December 2025

Tim Fletcher