Ebike Charging and Storage Guidance for Self-Catering Operators 

Introduction 

Welcoming guests with e-bikes is a great way to promote sustainable travel and encourage visitors to explore the local area in an eco-friendly way. However, e-bikes come with specific safety considerations – particularly around storage and charging – that every property owner must take seriously. The ASSC has provided some guidance for operators with support from Scottish Fire and Rescue.  

Start Here: Check with Your Insurance Provider 

Before offering e-bike storage or charging at your property, always check with your insurance provider to ensure: 

• E-bikes (and any related incidents) are covered under your policy 

• You are compliant with any safety or structural requirements 

• You are meeting your duty of care as a property owner 

It is also essential that you consider the provision and suitability of charging facilities within your Fire Risk Assessment.

Safe Charging Set-Up for Guests 

If you intend to welcome e-bikes, you should provide a safe, clearly designated external charging area. This helps reduce fire risk, protects your property, and reassures your guests.

Set-Up Tips: 

• Provide a well-ventilated, secure charging area, ideally outside the main property (e.g., a garage, outhouse, or other external space). 

• Never permit charging inside the premises – particularly not in escape routes, bedrooms, or communal indoor spaces. 

• Keep the area clear of flammable materials. 

• Display clear charging and safety instructions for guests. 

⚠️ Important: Batteries can ignite without warning. Once in thermal runaway, a fire cannot be extinguished until the cell has burnt out, releasing large quantities of smoke and noxious gas. This can very quickly compromise means of escape and trap occupants. For this reason, charging within the premises should be strictly avoided. 

 Guest Guidance: Charging and Storage Safety 

You should clearly communicate the following safety guidelines to your guests, both before arrival and on-site (welcome folder + notices in charging area). 

Ask guests to: 

• Notify you if they are bringing an e-bike, e-scooter, or other battery-powered vehicle so insurance records are accurate. 

• Use only approved, original chargers recommended by the manufacturer. 

• Charge only in the designated charging area – never indoors or in escape routes. 

• Charge batteries only when awake and present. Overnight or unattended charging should be avoided wherever the batteries are located. 

• Inspect chargers and cables for damage before use. Do not charge if damage is found. 

• Unplug chargers once charging is complete. 

• Allow batteries to cool after use before recharging. 

• Never tamper with or modify batteries. 

• Avoid non-branded, cheap replacement batteries or chargers.

General Safety Reminders 

• Never cover chargers or batteries during charging. 

• Do not overload sockets or use unsuitable extension leads. 

• Do not charge or store in direct sunlight or excessively hot conditions (above 45°C). 

• Always charge removable batteries on a flat, hard surface with good airflow. 

• Remember: Even with correct chargers and undamaged batteries, fire risk remains present.

Warning Signs of Battery Fire Risk 

Advise guests to immediately stop using and charging if they notice: 

• Unusual heat from the battery or charger 

• Swelling, leaking, or deformed batteries 

• Hissing, cracking, or unusual noises 

• Strong, chemical smells 

• Difficulty charging or long charge times 

• Smoke from the battery or device

The safest approach is to only permit charging externally, away from the property itself. By providing suitable facilities, setting clear expectations, and maintaining robust fire safety measures, you can protect your property and your guests. At the same time, you’ll be actively supporting low-carbon travel and encouraging more visitors to explore the area by bike. With the right facilities, clear communication, and guest guidance, your property can be both a safe environment and a welcoming base for cycling enthusiasts.

You can read further guidance here on batteries and particular e-bikes & scooters:  

https://www.firescotland.gov.uk/at-home/e-bike-and-e-scooters/ 

Author of guidance: ASSC  

Date of guidance: October 2025 

Version Number: V1 

Disclaimer – Guidance Sheets are written by experienced Members of the ASSC and other experts. The information in the ‘Guidance Sheet’ is provided by the ASSC for use by Members in support of their own independent business decisions. It does not constitute advice or instruction for which the ASSC can be held liable in any way whatsoever. All Members and other readers remain responsible for the consequences of any decisions taken whether in the light of information gained from this Guidance Sheet or not.