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Archive for August, 2009
The type of risk that your static caravan insurance is most exposed to will depend on your usage habits for the caravan as well as its location. If your caravan is located at a site that has long quiet periods, or is not in a location easily visible to others, it may be at high risk of burglary. If you only use the caravan at certain times of the year, this can be an extra worry, particularly if the caravan is located more than an hour from your home. You may need to think slightly differently than you would with a house in order to reduce your risks, as it is not recommended that you leave electrical products (such as lights, even on timers) switched on if you will be leaving the caravan unattended for long periods. However, you may be able to install solar, or battery powered lighting which can provide a deterrent. As well as this, there are companies who specialise in alarms for caravans, which can also inform you in the event of a breach.
Flooding is another significant risk for caravans that are permanently sited in certain locations. Some sites can attract a higher premium from some insurers, so it can be wise to check this if you are in a position to either change site, or to choose your first one. As well as this, you might also make savings on any measures that will reduce the risk of a fire, such as smoke detectors (which are always a sensible option anyway) and fire extinguishers.
Some insurers offer discounts for some types of basic and more advanced alarms.
Discounts are often available for an Alarm, a Sold Secure approved alarm or a Factory fitted alarm with PIR tilt and move and leg steady sensors. Extra caravan security can lead to bigger discounts and or a reduction in the excess of your policy. In some cases insurers will decline cover if you do not have a standard security system.
Always ask as discounts may be available for:
ALKO Chassis Secure Compact Wheel Lock – launched in 2006 by ALKO, one of the leading caravan chassis manufacturers, the wheel lock fits into a receiver which is built into the caravan chassis, on twin axle caravans both axles must be fitted with the device.
Bulldog MAX Wheel Clamp – this is designed to fit into the ALKO chassis receiver built into the caravan chassis, On twin axle caravans both axles must be secured.
SAS Gridlock – this device is designed to fit into the ALKO chassis receiver, on twin axle caravans both axles must be secured.
SAS Wheel Lock Diamond – this device launched in 2007 is designed and manufactured by Winterhoff for the caravan chassis manufacturer BPW, it is fully approved by the Explorer Group ( Elddis, Compass and Buccaneer) and fits most post 2004 models. It fits into a receiver built into the caravan chassis and is easy to fit (DIY or dealer). Both axles must be secured on twin axle caravans.
Thiefbeater
Thiefbeater is a leading theft deterrent for touring caravans. Essentially it is a professionally installed and comprehensive identification system which is applied to 40 or more places on and in the touring caravan, and which do not impact upon the caravans appearance or value. It makes it almost impossible to de-identify the caravan and has proved very effective in the fight against caravan theft. It is available at a one off price and is professionally installed, you are provided with a laminated registration certificate and bespoke registration number which we need to authenticate purchase.
Storage
Insurers always like to know that a caravan is stored in a safe location. You will receive discounts for choosing a CaSSOA or other secured site.
Caravan insurance – just what is covered?
Most insurers offer instant quotes and immediate cover onlinee cover nowadays.
Touring Caravans
Policies typically cover the Touring Caravan itself for loss or damage, its contents and should the caravan be involved in an accident emergency removal may be included, together with alternative accomodation for the caravanners.
To enable the caravanner to use their caravan abroad European use up to 240 days can be sourced and also cover for immediate family should they wish to use your touring van.
Depending upon the age of the caravan ther amy also be an option for New for Old.
most insurers nowadays provide the option to pay by Monthly Direct Debit, Credit card or cheque if desired. Some will even let you pay by invoice!
Typical features -
Loss of damage whilst the caravan is being towed.
Protection and removal to the nearest repairer following loss or damage.
Delivery after the caravan or trailer tent has been repaired to your home address or the storage location.
Third party liability.
Alternative accommodation.
Expenses occurring from the sole person who can drive the caravan becoming ill
Caravan contents.
Agreed Value
If the caravan has been purchased from a bona fide caravan dealer within the last 12 months, it can usually be insured at an agreed value ie for its purchase price.
In the event of a total loss with 12 months of purchase the Insurer will pay the purchase price with no deduction for depreciation since the purchase date.
Market Value
The sum insured should reflect the market value of the caravan, its equipment and contents taking into account age and condition. The sum insured should be reviewed at renewal each year to reflect the value of any additions or depreciation in value.
Most insurers will pay either:
• the market value of your caravan or its equipment immediately before the loss;
or
• the sum insured of your caravan or its equipment as shown in the schedule;
whichever is less.
Sum Insured
The sum insured is declared by you and should represent the full cost of the caravan.
The most an Insurer will pay is the sum insured shown in the schedule.
Underinsurance
If the cost of repairing or rebuilding the caravan is more than the sum insured declared by you at the time of any loss or damage, then you will have to pay a share of the claim. Repairs
If your caravan suffers loss or damage which is covered, you can usually
authorise and arrange for the caravan to be taken to the nearest authorised repairer. The Insurer will usually pay for the cost of protection, removal and redelivery charges (including disconnection and reconnection costs).
Static Caravans
Static Holiday Caravans insurance will cover the holiday caravan itself and its contents and with some Insurers a loss of rental income if the caravan is made uninhabitable.
Depending upon the age for the caravan there is uaually also an optional New for Old extension. The majority of Caravan Sites in the UK are covered by most companies.
Typical key features static van policies you should look out for -
Option to pay by Monthly Direct Debit
Cover for loss of or damage to the caravan itself (fairly obvious)
Cover for the fixtures and fittings within the caravan including
Furnishings
Utensils
Bedding and Accessories
Awnings
Toilet tents
Freezer spoilage
Contents
Loss of rental income Public Liability
Accidental damage to fixed glass, panels, sanitary fixtures, televisions, videos, audio and computer equipment
Replacement locks if keys are stolen
Standard levels of cover including fire, lightening, earthquake, explosion, storm or flood