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Insurance: what to ask before adding hydrogen storage

Insurers care about anything that changes the risk at a property. A hydrogen store is exactly that kind of change, so tell them early and get answers in writing.

Disclosure comes first

Most home insurance policies require you to tell the insurer about material changes to the property, and stored flammable gas almost certainly counts. Failing to disclose it could put a claim at risk, even one unrelated to the system. Ring your insurer before installation, describe the equipment plainly, and ask whether it affects your cover, your excess or your premium. Keep a record of who you spoke to and what they said.

What it would keep running

  • Written disclosure to your insurer
  • Electrical certificate of compliance
  • Council consent records
  • Maintenance log
  • Photos of the installation

Questions worth asking

Is the equipment itself covered under contents, buildings or as a separate item? Does cover include damage from storms, floods and fire to the enclosure? Is there a requirement for professional installation, regular maintenance or particular documentation? Is liability covered if a fault on your property affected a neighbour? Does a wind turbine or micro-hydro scheme need to be listed separately?

Some insurers may not yet have a settled view on home hydrogen storage, because so few homes have it. If yours is unsure, ask what information they need to make a decision, and in what form. The design standards, installation records and electrical certificate are the documents most likely to help them say yes.

How it works →
The H2OME loop: an electrolyser splits water into hydrogen, the hydrogen is stored in a tank for weeks, a fuel cell turns it into electricity for your home, and the water returns to the loop.

Keep the paperwork

Keep a folder with the installation documents, electrical certificate of compliance, any council consents, maintenance records and photos of the install. If you ever need to claim after a storm or quake, that record shows the system was installed and looked after properly. Update your insurer if anything changes, such as adding a turbine, moving the enclosure or extending storage after the pilot.

Questions

Will my premium go up?

We do not know and will not guess. It depends on your insurer and how they assess stored hydrogen. Ask them before installing, and shop around if the answer is unreasonable. A clear description and good documentation help.

Does insurance cover the equipment if it fails on its own?

Many home policies exclude mechanical or electrical breakdown and wear. Equipment faults would usually fall under any warranty terms instead. Ask your insurer exactly what is and is not covered for this kind of equipment.

Does it matter that it is still in development?

It may. Pilot installations are new, so insurers may ask more questions. Be upfront that it is a pilot system. That honesty protects you better than having a claim questioned later.

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