High-Roof Vans: Aftermarket Modifications And Insurance Complications

Insuring a van can be a complex process, with many factors influencing coverage options. For example, DIY conversions may be more challenging to insure than professionally-built vans, and insurance requirements and policies can vary depending on the state and intended usage. When it comes to aftermarket high-roof vans, there are a few key considerations. Firstly, it is important to ensure that any modifications do not invalidate the warranty, as some dealerships may refuse to service the van if it has been significantly altered. Secondly, the scarcity of high-roof vans can make it difficult to find insurance providers that cater specifically to these vehicles. However, some companies, such as Comfort Insurance, offer specialist high-top and raised-roof campervan insurance policies. Additionally, working with an insurance broker can help van owners find the right coverage and the best rates for their unique situations.

Insuring a van with a high roof as an RV

Understanding the Challenges

Firstly, it's worth noting that insuring any converted van, including those with aftermarket high roofs, can be more complicated than insuring a standard vehicle. Insurance companies often have specific requirements and criteria for converted vans, and finding a provider that suits your needs may take some time and effort.

Professional vs. DIY Conversions

One of the critical factors that influence the insurability of your high-roof van is whether it has been professionally converted or modified through a DIY project. Many insurance companies, such as Progressive, are more inclined to insure professionally converted vans. They may require proof that the conversion was done by a licensed and established company specialising in van conversions. This can include requesting invoices, proof of the company's official place of business, corresponding licenses, and a website.

On the other hand, DIY conversions can be more challenging to insure. Some insurance companies, like Roamly, specifically cater to DIY builds and self-built vans. They understand the unique needs of van lifers and offer flexible and competitively priced policies.

Registration and Re-titling

Before seeking insurance, it's essential to ensure that your van is correctly registered and titled. In the US, you may need to change the registration of your van to reflect its new purpose as an RV or "Auto House," as in the case of North Carolina. This typically involves an inspection, and there may be specific requirements, such as the inclusion of plumbing or a toilet. Re-titling rules vary by state, but it is generally a straightforward process that involves an inspection, obtaining the necessary paperwork, and a visit to the DMV to finalise the change.

Shopping Around and Working with Brokers

When it comes to finding the right insurance provider, it's essential to shop around and explore your options. Contact local agents, as they may be more knowledgeable and motivated to help you navigate the nuances of van conversions. Additionally, consider working with an insurance broker who has experience with campervans. Brokers typically have access to a wide range of insurance companies and can help you find the most suitable policy for your specific situation.

Disclosure of Modifications

Be transparent about any modifications you've made or plan to make to your van. Discuss your intentions with the car salesman to ensure that your changes won't invalidate the warranty. Some dealerships may refuse to service a van that has been significantly modified. It's also essential to be aware that some insurance companies may drop you if they learn about modifications that they don't insure.

Notable Insurance Providers

When insuring your high-roof van as an RV, you may come across various insurance providers, each with its own set of requirements and specialisations. Here are a few notable companies to consider:

• State Farm: Offers coverage for vans used as campers, even if they have been turned down by other insurance companies.
• Roamly: A subsidiary of Outdoorsy, Roamly specialises in insuring DIY van builds and self-built vans. They offer competitively priced and flexible policies.
• Progressive: While Progressive does not insure DIY builds, they are a popular choice for those with professionally converted vans.
• Foremost: Foremost is another option for insuring professionally converted vans.
• Comfort Insurance: This company provides insurance for high-top, raised-roof, and fixed-roof campervans, including conversions done by registered businesses and DIY conversions.

In conclusion, insuring a van with a high roof as an RV requires careful consideration and research. Be prepared for potential challenges, shop around for insurance providers, and ensure that your van meets the necessary criteria for coverage. By taking these steps, you can navigate the complexities of insuring your unique vehicle and enjoy your adventures with peace of mind.

Insuring a DIY camper van conversion

There are a few options for insuring your DIY camper van conversion. One option is to get an RV policy. However, this can be difficult because many insurance carriers require the van to be professionally converted by a shop whose primary business is van conversions. They must have an official place of business, corresponding licenses, and a website. Additionally, many insurance carriers will require the van to have certain features permanently installed, such as plumbing, a toilet, a sink, and water tanks. If the market value of your DIY campervan is below $30,000-$40,000, you may also have a challenging time insuring it as an RV.

Another option is to get a commercial policy, which is more robust than a standard auto policy. However, the quality of the conversion must be provably above average, and very often, self-converted vans are required to have a toilet.

A third option is to get a "full-timer" policy if you plan on spending more than six months per year in your van. Not all campervan insurance carriers offer this type of coverage, but it can provide liability similar to a homeowner's policy.

It is also important to note that you should disclose all upgrades and modifications made during the conversion to your insurer. This includes adding solar panels, generators, or interior fittings. You may need to provide photo documentation for any upgrades or modifications.

When insuring your DIY camper van conversion, it is recommended to work with an insurance broker. They will be able to get you the correct policy coverage and type for your specific situation and have access to the correct insurance companies. Additionally, insurance brokers don't usually charge fees.

Finally, it is worth mentioning that there are some companies that specialize in insuring DIY camper van conversions, such as Comfort Insurance and Progressive. Comfort Insurance offers converted campervan insurance quotes for conversions done by a registered business, as well as self-build campervan insurance for DIY conversions. Progressive offers DIY campervan insurance but requires certain features to be permanently installed, such as a fixed cooking facility with a propane gas supply, a fixed refrigeration unit, and a permanently installed bed.

Commercial insurance for vans

Commercial van insurance is a necessity for any business that uses vans. It can protect your business and employees from financial loss in the event of an accident or damage to the van. The most common types of commercial van insurance coverage are liability insurance and physical damage coverage. Liability insurance covers your business and employees if they are involved in an accident while driving the van, and physical damage coverage protects your van if it is damaged in an accident.

When obtaining commercial van insurance, it is important to consider the specific needs of your business. For example, if you are transporting cargo, you will need to obtain cargo insurance, which will cover the cost of the cargo in the event of theft or damage. The cost of cargo insurance will depend on various factors, including the type of cargo and the value of the freight. It is also important to note that some insurance plans may limit the type of cargo that can be covered, so be sure to review the policy carefully.

Another factor to consider when insuring your van is the type of conversion it has undergone. If you have converted your van into a campervan, for example, you may need to obtain a different type of insurance policy, such as an RV policy. Some insurance companies may require the van to have certain features, such as plumbing or a specific type of roof, in order to qualify for certain policies. Additionally, the quality of the conversion can impact the insurability of the van, with some companies requiring the conversion to be above average in quality.

Obtaining commercial van insurance can be a confusing process, and it is often recommended to work with an insurance broker or agent who has experience with vans. They can help you navigate the different types of policies and coverages available and find the best rate for your specific needs. It is also important to shop around and compare quotes from multiple insurance providers to ensure you are getting the best coverage for your business.

Finally, it is worth noting that the cost of commercial van insurance can vary depending on various factors, including the type of van, the value of the van, and the experience of the driver. It is important to review the specific requirements and coverages of each insurance policy to ensure that your business is adequately protected in the event of an accident or damage.

Getting the right coverage for your van

Getting the right insurance coverage for your van can be a complex and confusing process. It is important to do your research and understand the different types of coverage available to ensure you are adequately protected in the event of an accident or other mishap.

One of the key considerations when insuring a van is whether it has been converted for camper use. If you are in the process of converting a van into a camper, it is recommended that you maintain normal car insurance until the conversion is complete. Once the van is 100% converted, you can then switch to campervan insurance. This type of insurance can provide coverage for a range of scenarios, including accidents, theft, vandalism, and third-party claims.

The quality and type of conversion can also impact the insurance options available to you. For example, some insurance companies may require that the conversion was carried out by a registered business, while others may offer coverage for DIY conversions. In the case of DIY conversions, it is important to keep detailed records of all receipts, invoices, and labour hours, as this can help insurance companies assess the value of your conversion in the event of a claim.

Another factor to consider when insuring a van is the type of roof it has. High-roof vans, for example, may be harder to insure due to their scarcity and the fact that they may be considered aftermarket modifications. It is important to check with insurance providers whether they will cover aftermarket modifications and whether this will impact your premium.

To find the right coverage for your van, it is recommended that you work with an experienced insurance broker who can help you navigate the complex world of van insurance and find a policy that suits your specific needs and circumstances. It is also a good idea to get quotes from multiple insurance companies and to read the fine print carefully to understand exactly what is and isn't covered under each policy.

Insuring a van with a high roof as a motorhome

When it comes to insurance, the process can vary depending on whether your high-roof van is a factory-made camper van, a professionally converted camper van, or a DIY conversion. Most insurance companies will cover factory-made camper vans, but not all will cover professionally converted or DIY conversions. It is crucial to understand your insurance options before making any modifications to your van. Some insurance companies may require specific criteria to be met for your van to qualify as a motorhome or RV, such as permanent cooking areas, plumbing, electricity, or running water.

If you are planning a DIY conversion, be aware that some insurance companies may only cover material costs and not labour. Keeping records of your receipts and taking photos of the conversion process can help with insurance claims and valuation. Additionally, some companies may require your van to have a toilet, running water, and power to be considered a campervan or motorhome. It is recommended to work with an experienced insurance broker who can guide you through the process and find the right coverage for your specific situation.

In terms of policy types, you may consider a commercial policy or an RV policy. Commercial policies are more robust than standard auto policies but may require the quality of the conversion to be above average. RV policies can reflect the cost of the conversion, but your van may need to be professionally converted by a shop specialising in van conversions and meet certain criteria, such as having permanent installations like plumbing.

Finally, insurance requirements and policies can vary depending on your location, so it is essential to check with your local regulations and insurance providers to understand the specific criteria and coverage options available to you.

Frequently asked questions