Introduction
When it comes to van insurance, there’s one crucial factor that many people overlook.
But did you know failing to declare changes to your van can invalidate your policy?
It’s essential to understand what counts as a modification, why you need to declare them, and how they impact your insurance premium.
In this guide, we’ll break down everything you need to know about van modifications and how they affect your insurance coverage.
Let’s dive in.
Modifications
If you make changes to your van, even minor ones, you need to inform your insurer immediately.
Why?
Because failing to declare modifications can leave you without coverage when you need it most.
For example, if you’ve added internal racking or fitted a bulkhead and didn’t tell your insurer, they might not cover any damage to those parts if your van is involved in an accident.
Insurers base your policy on the vehicle’s original condition.
So, any modifications that affect performance, appearance, or safety must be declared.
In some cases, your insurer may ask for receipts or photos of the modifications.
If you make a modification mid-way through your policy, it’s essential to update your insurer immediately.
These changes could affect your premium.
Failing to do so might lead to a rejected claim if you ever need to make one.
And if your insurer believes you’ve deliberately withheld information, you could be accused of misrepresentation.
That can seriously impact any future insurance applications.
Don’t risk it!
Always inform your insurer, no matter how small the modification seems.
What’s Considered A Modification?
What exactly counts as a van modification?
In simple terms, any change that affects how your van looks or drives needs to be declared.
This includes everything from cosmetic changes like paint jobs to functional upgrades like fitting heavy-duty locks or internal racking.
Here’s a quick list of common modifications:
- Internal racking
- Heavy-duty locks
- Bulkheads
- Parking sensors
Even safety features, such as parking sensors, are considered modifications.
Although they might reduce your risk, insurers still need to know about them.
In most cases, changes that alter the van from its factory condition are seen as modifications.
Failing to declare these could lead to problems with your policy, especially if you need to make a claim.
And it’s not just about adding items.
Removing features also counts.
For example, if you take out seats or windows as part of a van conversion, this should be declared too.
Modifications can cover a wide range of changes.
If in doubt, always ask your insurer.
Van Conversions And Renovations
Converting your van for a specific use, like for holidays or business, requires even more attention to detail.
These are often considered more significant modifications, and insurers need to be made aware of them.
Here are some examples of van conversions that should be declared:
- Removing seats or windows
- Installing fitted kitchens
- Adding insulation or power supplies
- Storing gas canisters and portable generators
Planning to use your van as a camper?
Then you might need specialist camper conversion insurance.
These types of changes can drastically affect your vehicle’s classification and value.
If you’ve made significant alterations to the structure or interior of the van, you’ll definitely need to inform your insurer.
This ensures you’re covered for everything.
Why Modifications Affect The Cost Of Van Insurance
Modifications can significantly increase your van insurance premiums.
But why?
When you change the engine’s power output, for example, you make the van faster and more powerful.
This increase in power pushes your premium up because the van becomes riskier to insure.
Similarly, adding flashy accessories or enhancing the van’s appearance makes it more attractive to thieves.
This heightened risk causes insurers to raise your rates.
If you fit expensive wheels or install high-end audio systems, replacing these items after an accident becomes more costly.
As a result, your insurance premium will rise to cover these potential expenses.
It’s crucial to remember that any modification can impact the overall value and risk of your van.
What To Do If You Modify Your Van Mid-Policy
If you modify your van while your insurance policy is active, don’t wait to inform your insurer.
Contact them right away.
Why?
Because failing to declare modifications immediately could leave you without coverage when you need it most.
After informing your insurer, they’ll review your policy and make adjustments based on the new information.
This could mean an increase in your premium.
But ignoring the modification could mean total claim rejection in the future.
It’s always better to be upfront and ensure your insurance reflects the current state of your van.
So, make sure to communicate changes to your van as soon as possible.
Van Conversions: A Deeper Dive
Van conversions require even more attention.
Why?
Because you’re making significant changes that will impact your insurance coverage.
For example, removing seats or adding a fitted kitchen doesn’t just change the interior.
It changes the van’s classification and overall value.
Planning to install insulation or power supplies?
You need to tell your insurer right away.
And if you’re storing gas canisters or portable generators, that’s even more crucial to declare.
These are not minor changes.
They can drastically affect your insurance policy.
If your insurer doesn’t know about them, you’re risking denied claims in the future.
Are you thinking of using your van as a camper?
Then you may need specialist camper conversion insurance.
Why?
Because camper vans are classified differently, and without proper coverage, you could end up paying out of pocket.
Why Transparency Is Key
Now, let’s get real.
Transparency with your insurer is absolutely vital.
If you’ve made modifications, no matter how small, declare them.
Your insurer will adjust your policy to reflect those changes.
Yes, your premium might increase.
But it’s a small price to pay for proper coverage.
The temptation to hide modifications to avoid higher premiums can be strong.
However, if your insurer discovers undeclared changes, they may refuse to pay out on claims.
This could leave you facing hefty repair costs.
Don’t let that happen!
It’s always better to stay on the safe side.
Declare every modification.
Update your insurer regularly.
And make sure your van insurance covers everything.
Conclusion
Modifying your van can be exciting.
But it also comes with responsibilities.
Always declare any changes, whether they’re cosmetic upgrades or full van conversions.
Why?
Because failing to do so could leave you without coverage when you need it most.
Need more van insurance tips?
Check out these related blogs:
Why Proper Vehicle Compliance is Crucial for Road Safety
Are You Driving a Car or a Van? Check Your Insurance Policy
How Telematics Devices Can Save You Money on Van Insurance
