Auto Insurance: Covering Self-Installed Van Windows Conversions?

If you're thinking about converting your van into a campervan, it's important to consider insurance. Auto insurance may cover your van, but it won't cover any upgrades you make, like installing a stove or fridge. This means you'll have to pay out of pocket for any repairs to your van conversion upgrades. To avoid this, you could look into getting RV insurance, which covers personal belongings and vehicle upgrades, but qualifying for this can be tricky. Your best option is to go to a specialist insurer that can offer coverage tailored to your unique vehicle.

Self-build campervan insurance

There are a few things to keep in mind when it comes to self-build campervan insurance:

• Timing: It's important to insure your van as a "camper in conversion" as soon as you buy it. This ensures that you're covered during the build process, and in case anything happens before your conversion is finished. Some insurance companies set a time limit for completing the conversion and require regular progress updates, while others are more flexible.
• Reclassification: In the past, it was common to reclassify your van conversion to a campervan on its V5C with the DVLA. However, the DVLA has recently cracked down on reclassifications, making it almost impossible to achieve. Fortunately, insurance companies have adapted, and you can still insure your van as a "camper in conversion" or a "modified van" without reclassification.
• Requirements: To be classified as a converted motorhome or campervan, your vehicle must meet certain criteria set by the government. These include having a bed of at least 6 feet in length, permanent storage, a fixed water installation, seating and dining arrangements, a cooking or heating facility, access to living accommodation through a door, and at least one window on each side of the habitation part of the vehicle.
• Modifications: If you've made any changes to your vehicle, it's important to declare them when getting insurance. This includes things like non-standard alloy wheels, tinted windows, new seats, and power supplies. Even if you've purchased a self-build campervan that was converted by someone else, you need to declare any modifications as they may impact the price and level of cover.
• Cost: The cost of self-build campervan insurance can vary depending on your personal situation, the modifications made to your vehicle, and the level of protection you choose (third-party, third-party fire and theft, or comprehensive). Generally, self-build campervan insurance is less expensive than van insurance because campervans tend to be less involved in rush-hour accidents and have lower overall risk profiles.
• Specialist insurers: Due to the bespoke nature of self-build campervans, it's recommended to go to a specialist insurer that can offer coverage tailored to your unique vehicle. These insurers will take the time to understand the details of your self-build campervan and provide advice and knowledge to help you find the perfect insurance policy.

Reclassifying your van conversion

DVLA Requirements:

The DVLA has specific criteria that your van must meet to be reclassified as a 'motor caravan', and it can be challenging to meet their criteria. Here are some key things to keep in mind when considering reclassifying your van conversion:

External Specifications:

• 2 or more windows on at least one side of the main body (excluding windows on driver or passenger doors) to provide daylight into the living accommodation.
• A separate door providing access to the living accommodation (excluding driver and passenger doors); a window on this door counts as a separate window.
• Motor caravan-style graphics on both sides of the vehicle.
• A high-top roof (excluding pop-top elevating roofs).

Internal Specifications:

• Permanent seating fixed to the floor or sidewall, available for use at a table.
• Sleeping accommodation, either beds or seats that can be converted into beds, secured as a permanent feature.
• A minimum of a single-ring cooking facility or microwave, secured directly to the vehicle floor or side wall.
• If the cooking facility is fuelled by an on-board gas supply, the fuel reservoir must be secured in a storage cupboard or to the vehicle structure.
• Storage facilities, such as a cupboard or locker, secured permanently to the vehicle floor or side wall.

Insurance Options:

Even if you don't meet the DVLA's criteria for reclassification, you can still insure your van as a campervan. Many insurance companies offer "camper in conversion" or "modified van" insurance, which can provide coverage for your van conversion and its contents. Here are some things to keep in mind when exploring insurance options:

• Insure your van as soon as you start the conversion process to ensure coverage in case of accidents or damage during the build.
• Document the conversion process thoroughly, including receipts, design documents, proof of purchase, and the number of hours spent on the build.
• Contact multiple insurance companies and agents to find the best policy for your needs.
• Consider the type of coverage you need, such as auto, RV, or personal articles insurance, based on the value and modifications of your van.
• Be prepared to provide detailed information and photographs of your van conversion to the insurance company.
• If you plan to live in your van full-time, disclose this to the insurance company and consider additional coverage, such as liability coverage and roadside assistance.

Campervan insurance companies

GoCompare

GoCompare offers motorhome insurance, which covers campervans. They offer three levels of cover: cover for travelling to and from a single place of work; cover for personal business use; and cover for social, domestic and pleasure use. They also offer comprehensive, third-party theft and fire, and third-party only policies.

Compare the Market

Compare the Market offers motorhome and campervan insurance. They offer three types of insurance: third-party, third-party fire and theft, and fully comprehensive. They also offer specialist motorhome policies that cover European road trips.

Adrian Flux

Adrian Flux offers campervan insurance, which covers motorhomes. They offer discounts for limited mileage and camper owners club or forum membership. They also offer personal possession and gadget cover.

Just Kampers Insurance

Just Kampers Insurance offers self-build campervan insurance, which includes coverage for trips across Europe. They also offer optional extras like Personal Effects Cover, Contents Cover, and Breakdown Cover.

Advance Insurance

Advance Insurance offers converted campervan insurance, which includes self-build campervan insurance. They offer specialist insurance policies for different types of vans, including Volkswagen Transporters, Mazda Bongos, and Ford Transits. They also offer extended cover for European travel.

Brentacare

Brentacare offers "camper in conversion" insurance, which covers vehicles that are in the process of being converted into campervans.

A-Plan

A-Plan offers insurance for converted campervans.

Photoguard

Photoguard offers specialist camera insurance, which can be useful for photographers with expensive equipment living in their campervans.

TrueTraveller

TrueTraveller offers travel insurance, which can be tailored to cover valuables and certain sports such as skiing and climbing.

Protect Your Bubble

Protect Your Bubble offers insurance for valuables such as mobile phones and laptops.

Insuring a DIY campervan conversion

Speak to an insurance broker before starting your conversion:

It is advisable to consult an insurance broker before beginning your conversion project. They can guide you on the criteria to consider in your build and the documentation you should maintain. Be transparent about your plans and intentions for the vehicle to avoid issues with your insurer in the future.

Insure the base vehicle:

Ensure that you insure the base vehicle as you would for any other car. This step will provide coverage for the vehicle itself in case of accidents, theft, or damage.

Keep records of purchases and modifications:

Maintain detailed records of all purchases and modifications made during the conversion process. This includes everything from major components like the water tank and stove to smaller items like nuts and bolts. Organise your records in a spreadsheet or an expense-tracking app.

Take photos of the conversion process:

Capture comprehensive 'before and after' photos of your van from various angles, including the interior, exterior, undercarriage, and roof. These photos may be requested by insurance companies and can sometimes help you avoid a full inspection of your vehicle.

Submit evidence and documentation to your insurance broker:

Once your conversion is complete, compile your expense records and photos and send them to your insurance broker. This information will be used to underwrite your new policy as a Motorhome, Camper Van, or RV. Be prepared for a potential physical inspection of your vehicle by the insurance company.

Reclassify your vehicle if necessary:

Depending on your location, you may need to reclassify your vehicle from a 'Cargo Van' to a 'Motorhome' or 'Camper Van'. Contact your local Department of Motor Vehicles (DMV) to inquire about the specific requirements and criteria for reclassification.

Insure your personal contents:

Keep in mind that motorhome insurance policies typically only cover items fastened to the vehicle, such as cabinets, solar, and electrical installations. For items that can be removed, such as the fridge, computers, and cameras, you may need a separate policy. Consult your insurance broker about your options, and be transparent about the travelling nature of these possessions.

Understand the cost and available insurance providers:

The cost of insuring your DIY van conversion will depend on various factors, including the value of your vehicle and the extent of your modifications. Speak to local insurance agents to explore your options and compare quotes. For our American friends, State Farm has been mentioned as a company willing to work with DIY van builders.

Getting the right coverage

Understand the Classification of Your Converted Van

Before seeking insurance, it is crucial to understand how your converted van is classified. In most cases, a converted van is no longer considered a standard van and falls under a different category, such as a "campervan" or "motorhome." This classification will impact the type of insurance coverage you need. Check your V5C form or vehicle logbook to determine the official classification of your converted van.

Research Insurance Options: Auto Insurance vs. RV Insurance

There are two main types of insurance policies to consider for your converted van: auto insurance and RV insurance.

Auto Insurance:

A standard auto insurance policy typically covers only the vehicle itself and not any modifications or personal belongings inside. While auto insurance will protect your van in the event of an accident, theft, or damage, it will not cover any upgrades or conversions you have made. Keep in mind that some insurance companies may refuse to provide auto insurance for DIY conversions or may exclude coverage for self-installed modifications.

RV Insurance (Class B):

If you want your self-installed windows and other modifications to be insured, you will likely need to opt for RV insurance, specifically Class B. RV insurance protects both the exterior and interior of your van, including your belongings. However, qualifying for RV insurance can be challenging, and the requirements vary from state to state and insurance company to insurance company. Some common requirements for a vehicle to be classified as an RV include plumbing, cooking facilities, and, in some cases, running water and a toilet.

Find Specialist Insurers

When it comes to insuring a converted van, it is advisable to seek out specialist insurers who have experience in this area. These insurers understand the unique nature of self-built or converted campervans and motorhomes and can offer tailored coverage to meet your specific needs. They will take into account the modifications you have made and ensure that your insurance policy adequately reflects the value of your vehicle and its customisations.

Be Transparent and Provide Detailed Information

When approaching insurance companies, it is crucial to be transparent and provide detailed information about your converted van. Disclose all modifications, including self-installed windows, and be prepared to provide photographic evidence, receipts, and a breakdown of costs. This information will help insurance companies assess the value of your vehicle and determine the appropriate level of coverage. Remember, omitting or providing false information could lead to cancellation of coverage or even fraud allegations.

Compare Quotes and Choose the Right Policy

Shop around and compare quotes from different insurance companies to find the best coverage for your needs. Consider factors such as the cost of the policy, the level of protection it offers, and whether it covers both the vehicle and your modifications. Additionally, review the different coverage options available, such as liability insurance, comprehensive and collision coverage, roadside assistance, and personal effects coverage. Choose a policy that provides adequate protection for your vehicle, your modifications, and your personal belongings.

Frequently asked questions