Insurers are urging EV owners in Malaysia to look beyond standard motor cover.
As more owners install home chargers and rely on public charging, insurers are beginning to talk more openly about the extra risks that come with electric-car ownership.
Reports by The Star today said EV owners are being urged to consider extra cover for charging units, damage linked to them, and even help when the battery runs flat.
The General Insurance Association of Malaysia (Piam) said EV owners can buy extra protection for home charging hardware and losses linked to it.
Homeowners may also need to declare the charger under an existing home fire policy so the insurer can assess the added risk and premium.
That ties back to home charging. The same reports said a home EV charger should only be fitted by a contractor registered with the Energy Commission, not through shortcuts or unqualified work.
The Electrical and Electronics Association of Malaysia warned that poor installation can expose homeowners to electric shock, fire and damage to both the EV and house wiring.
Contractors are also expected to test the full system, set charging limits, register the installation with the Energy Commission, and hand over the test report and related documents to the owner.
Older homes deserve a proper check first. Ageing wiring, corroded connections and even shared electrical supply in some areas can make EV charging unsafe if the setup is not assessed properly.
Installers are also expected to confirm whether the charger needs single-phase or three-phase supply, and whether the home still has enough spare capacity once air-conditioners, heaters and other heavy household loads are taken into account.
It does not end with the wallbox. EV policies can also include towing to the nearest charging point or limited roadside charging support if the battery runs low. In condos and other high-rises, there are added fire and liability concerns for building owners.
It is no longer just about load. For EV owners, it is also about whether the charger is installed properly, whether the paperwork is in order, and whether the insurance actually covers the risks that come with it.
It also builds on Tenaga Nasional Bhd’s warning last November that some homes may need a supply upgrade before a wallbox is installed.
