FAQ
My caravan is stored in France, is the claims process any
different?
A claim abroad would be processed in much the same way as a
claim in the UK. Just contact the claims team on 01242 528844
(Economy & Select policies) or 0115 9349818 (All other
policies) and report the incident. The course of action would then
be dependant upon the nature of the claim and the cover.
Where are caravans/motor homes most at risk from theft or
damage?
Based on the information we hold regarding causes of claims, we
found:
- 55% of claims were made as a result of Accidental Damage
- 18% of claims were made as a result of Storm
- 13% of claims were made as a result of Theft
- 7% of claims were made as a result of Malicious Damage
- 5% of claims were made as a result of Fire/Flood
- 2% of claims were a result of other reasons
We also found most incidents occur while the caravan is being
towed.
Does my caravan insurance provide protection for contents and
associated equipment such as awnings?
Your policy would generally be broken down into 2
sections...
Caravan - This relates to the structure of the
caravan to be insured, and its’ fixtures and fittings. The value of
which is usually judged either by the Glasses Guide Book (which all
caravan insurers should possess, and which list new and used
values) or the price paid to a registered dealer (proof would be
necessary). It does not include any extras you may have gained as
part of the deal i.e. motor movers or awnings.
Contents/Associated Equipment - This section
relates to any contents and accessories that you have purchased (or
had included in your purchase). Examples of which could be an
Awning, Motor Mover, Security Devices (i.e. Tracker), Solar Panels,
Gas & Water Bottles, the list goes on.
Personal effects, items that you bring to your caravan, are not
generally covered within Touring Insurance Policies. This is
because, in most instances, they will be covered by your Home
Insurance (check with your insurer)
Please refer to our Guide to Buying Caravan Insurance if you
need any further information.
My caravan was damaged in a collision with a car going in the
opposite direction. Who is responsible?
As a rule caravan insurance policies provide no cover for third
party liabilities whilst being towed as at such times the caravan
is considered to be a trailer under the control of the vehicle
driver and so is subject to the Road Traffic Act. Your car
insurance policy automatically provides this as it is a legal
requirement.
Any damage to your caravan should be covered by your caravan
insurer (as would be the case with Towergate Insurance) but you
should check with your caravan insurer to be sure.
The only way you can save claiming from both your car and
caravan insurance is for you to demonstrate that the Third party
was liable. Then you and your insurers could recoup the relevant
costs from the 3rd party insurer, saving you paying the excesses
and losing your no claim bonus.
Alko Chassis Wheel Locks’s – are they worth the extra
money?
The Alko Wheel Lock is an excellent way to secure your caravan.
As a company we have received fewer reported thefts involving these
as opposed to a standard wheel lock (ones which lock around the
wheel instead of into the axle). As a result, we give a 25%
discount on insurance policies for caravan owners who use these
devices. Unfortunately not all Caravans are compatible; generally
it is only 2006 to present models that have the receiver built in
as long as they have an Alko chassis so you'll need to check with
your caravan dealer to ensure compatibility.
I plan to store my caravan at home, is this be acceptable for
insurance?
Generally speaking, storing your caravan on your driveway is
acceptable as long as you've met your insurance company's security
requirements.
Alternatives are available, a secure compound is best for your
caravan especially over the winter months. CASSOA registered sites
are preferred by Insurers as they meet specific requirements for
security. They are graded Bronze, Silver and Gold dependent upon
their security features and claims record. Towergate Insurance can
offer up to 25% discount for secure storage (dependant on policy),
although other companies will offer a range of storage discounts
too.
