Allianz has said the average cost of lithium battery fire claims has hit £50,000. The insurer said leaking and damaged batteries and overcharged e-vehicles combusting at home were the cause of these blazes. It urged homeowners to be mindful of the number and age of batteries they have in their property, including those in unused devices such as old mobile phones.

Caroline Johnson, personal lines claims director at Allianz, said: “Fires caused by rechargeable lithium batteries can have devastating consequences, and it is important that people use good quality batteries from reputable retailers.

“Items such as mobile phones, tablets, cameras and other electronic devices are essential parts of modern living but we can all take precautionary steps to make sure we are charging, disposing and handling our devices correctly. People should look out for problems with their batteries such as wear and tear, overheating and bulging, and dispose of damaged batteries properly.

“Old tech should be recycled properly and it is also important that every house has smoke alarms fitted.”