Islington Council is preparing to consult residents on new rules designed to enhance the safe storage and charging of e-bike and e-scooter batteries. The proposed changes, which were discussed at an Executive meeting on Thursday, September 17, 2026, aim to mitigate the escalating fire risks associated with lithium-ion batteries.
Councillor Jason Jackson, Executive Member for Homes and Neighbourhoods, highlighted that the updated Tenancy Conditions are a necessary response to legislative changes, evolving building safety requirements, and emerging risks, particularly those posed by lithium-ion batteries. The consultation will also address the misuse of council homes for commercial purposes, with proposed new conditions stating: You must not use or cause or allow to be used any parts of the property or estate for non-residential purposes, or residential businesses (e.g. holiday let or boarding house) or any commercial activity, (e.g. running a car repair business) without the council's written permission.
This measure is intended to support effective housing management, protect social housing availability, and prevent unauthorised occupation or subletting.
The core of the new regulations for e-bikes and e-scooters dictates that tenants must not store or charge these items or their batteries in communal areas, hallways, garages, or anywhere on estates. For those wishing to store or charge these items within their homes, explicit permission from the council is required to ensure the safety of all residents and the building. Permission for storage or charging in communal areas will not be granted under any circumstances. Furthermore, for fire safety reasons, residents must be present in their property when recharging any lithium batteries.
This initiative follows several concerning incidents, including one where a family narrowly escaped harm from an exploding e-bike battery. The council is also introducing new conditions for electric mobility vehicles. Tenants will be permitted to store these vehicles in their homes, provided they obtain written permission from the council, supported by a medical professional's report. Permission will not be unreasonably withheld as long as means of escape in the event of fire can be maintained. Mobility scooters are prohibited from communal areas, hallways, garages, or any part of the estate unless a designated storage area exists, which also requires written permission. Residents are advised to take precautions when storing or charging mobility scooters, e-bikes, and e-scooters (including their batteries) within their property, ensuring that charging or storage does not impede their means of escape.
The council plans a comprehensive 16-week consultation period, employing various communication channels such as online surveys, direct mail, drop-in sessions, and engagement with resident groups to ensure broad tenant feedback. The statutory consultation is scheduled to commence in October 2026. Following the conclusion of the 16-week consultation, tenants will be given an additional 8-week notification period before any new Tenancy Conditions are enforced.
These proposed changes are part of a broader review of the council's Tenancy Conditions, aimed at making them clearer, stronger, and more aligned with current legislation and best practices. Further details on the proposed changes can be found in the Public reports pack.