Independent garages across the UK are at risk of being refused insurance cover if they do not have electric vehicle (EV) trained technicians on site, according to Autotech Training.
It comes as insurers begin to tighten requirements around high-voltage vehicle work, with the warning following a real-world case. An independent garage approached Autotech Training after its insurer declined to offer cover, citing the absence of a qualified EV technician as a significant risk factor.
With more than two million electric vehicles now on UK roads and adoption continuing to accelerate, independent workshops are encountering EVs more frequently. But many are still not equipped with the skills required to work on high-voltage systems safely, the training firm said.
Although EV training is not currently a legal requirement, existing legislation places clear responsibilities on employers. Under the Health and Safety at Work Act 1974 and the Electricity at Work Regulations 1989, businesses must ensure employees are competent to carry out their work safely.
Given that EVs contain high-voltage systems capable of causing serious injury or death, this places a clear obligation on garage owners to ensure technicians are properly trained.
For businesses, the implications go beyond compliance. If an incident occurs involving an untrained technician, insurers may refuse to pay out on a claim. In more serious cases, garage owners could face enforcement action or prosecution if it is found that adequate training and safety measures were not in place.
Autotech Training, an IMI-approved training provider, is supporting garages in addressing the issue through on-site EV training programmes focused on practical, hands-on learning. impacting both revenue and reputation.
Andrew Harris ACII, a Chartered Insurance Broker with 18 years industry experience providing general risk management and insurance advice, said:
“From an underwriting perspective, garages working on high-voltage vehicles without appropriately trained
technicians present a significantly elevated risk.
“In the event of an incident, questions around competence, compliance and duty of care can directly impact liability
and claims outcomes. Without evidence of appropriate training, this is a level of risk many insurers are no longer willing to accept.”
Alistair McCrindle, Operations Director at Autotech Training, said:
“We are seeing a clear increase in demand for EV training as garages recognise the risks of not being prepared.
“This is no longer just about future-proofing or new revenue opportunities – it’s about protecting staff, meeting legal
responsibilities and ensuring the business can continue to operate.
“Garages that invest in their teams now will benefit from safer operations, stronger customer confidence and a business that remains compliant and competitive as the shift to electrification accelerates.”
Image courtesy of Autotech Training
