0800 466 1887How to make sure you're getting the most from your motorhome insurance policy.
Whether you plan to drive your motor home in the UK or abroad you will need to be covered with a valid insurance policy - this is a legal requirement. While it may be possible to extend your basic car insurance in order to meet this requirement, covering your motor home with a specially designed policy will ensure that the unique features of, and risks associated with this type of vehicle are adequately covered.
Most basic policies will cover your motor home for loss or damage due to theft, vandalism or fire and will provide financial assistance if any third party damage is sustained. The majority of policies will also provide cover for equipment such as generators, awnings, TV aerials, cooking equipment and safety devices. Most policies will also protect you against the risk of explosion posed by gas installations.
Contents cover for your personal possessions may be included and often encompasses electrical devices such as audio equipment and fitted televisions (although you should check individual policies for details). Valuables left in your motor home are unlikely to be covered under your policy so you should make sure that these are protected by your home insurance.
Many insurance providers include European cover for your motor home as standard. However, if you plan to travel abroad frequently you should check whether any limitations are placed on the number or duration of your trips, whether there are any restrictions on the countries you can visit and if your motor home will be covered during sea crossings.
Breakdown cover is often included as part of motor home insurance polices and so represents real value for money. However, as a precaution you should check that you are happy with the level and scope of the cover provided before embarking on a journey. Additionally, if you are likely to be travelling far away from home, check that your policy will provide funds for alternative accommodation and transportation if your motor home becomes damaged and unusable while you are holidaying.
It is important to be aware that most insurance companies make 'assumptions' about your motor home's condition and your eligibility to drive it. It is advisable to comply with any assumptions made by your insurer as if their conditions are not met your insurance may be invalidated.
Legally, to drive a motor home under 3.5 tonnes in the UK you need a full, valid driving licence. For larger motor homes (up to 7.5 tonnes with/without a trailer of up to 750kg) you must have a category C1 extension on your driving licence. Additionally, many insurance providers 'assume' that your motor home is specifically designed or professionally converted and in good condition. Some policies will also assume that your motor home is being kept on your personal property or in an appropriate storage location while not in use.
As the majority of motor home owners do not use their motor homes on a daily basis, discounts are often offered for limited usage and mileage. Discounts may also be offered to members of recognised motor home owners clubs. Additionally, most insurance providers offer you the opportunity to build a no claims discount.
By choosing a comprehensive motor home insurance policy you can be confident that whether on the road or in a resting location, your motor home and its equipment will be protected against the unforeseen.
