Buying the Right Van Insurance for Your Needs
Finding the right van insurance for your needs can be tricky. With the wide range of products and types of cover on the market, it is easy to get overwhelmed. Having the appropriate insurance is essential, so it's worth taking the time to research and find the best policy, or policies, for you. In this article, we’ll discuss the different types of van insurance available and their benefits, as well as how to select the right insurer and the things you need to consider when shopping around for cover.
Types of Van Insurance
When purchasing van insurance, there are several options to choose from. Third party cover is the most basic form of insurance and will only pay out in the event of a claim against you — i.e. if you are held liable for an accident and the other party incurs costs as a result. It won’t cover any damage to your vehicle and can often be the cheapest type of cover.
Third party, fire, and theft can be slightly more expensive than basic third party cover, but offers extra protection. It would cover you for any damage to your vehicle resulting from theft or fire.
Fully comprehensive insurance is the most expensive, however, it provides the broadest level of protection. In addition to the policy features of the other two types of cover, you’ll also be covered for any accidental damage or vandalism to your van. It also often includes extras, such as breakdown cover, so be sure to read the small print carefully.
Choosing the Right Insurer
Once you’ve established the type of cover you require, it’s time to shop around for the right insurer. There are several factors to consider when selecting an insurer. Many insurers will offer discounts if you purchase an annual policy in one go rather than monthly payments, as well as discounts if you have a clean driving record. You’ll also need to consider the excess levels and any extra features that may be included in the policy, such as legal expenses or windscreen cover.
It’s important to remember that not all insurers are the same, so be sure to read reviews and do your research first — you’ll find there’s a wide range of policies and premiums out there. Once you’ve found a policy that suits your needs, you can then shop around and compare quotes to ensure you get the best deal.
Things to Consider When Comparing Quotes
It pays to compare quotes when shopping for van insurance, as there can be considerable differences in cover, premiums, and exclusions. When comparing quotes, it’s important to consider the insurer’s claims history as well as the insurer’s reputation for customer service. You’ll also need to consider the excess — higher excess amounts typically result in lower premiums, however, if you make a claim you’ll need to pay the excess upfront. Additionally, look out for lower premiums for drivers aged 25 or over and a no claims discount if you’ve had no claims over a certain period.
How to Save on Van Insurance
There are lots of ways to save money on your van insurance premium, such as considering a black box policy. These policies use a device which monitors your driving behaviour, and could result in a reduced premium if you are deemed to be a responsible driver. Additionally, fitting additional security features such as an alarm or immobiliser, or storing your vehicle in a secure location could also help to reduce your insurance costs.
You can also save money by increasing excess amounts, however, be aware that this could result in you needing to pay out a large sum if you make a claim, so it’s important to ensure you can afford any excess payments beforehand. Finally, remember to shop around for the best deal and consider a variety of insurers, as there can be considerable savings to be made.
Conclusion
Finding the right van insurance for your needs doesn’t have to be a daunting task. Through careful research and comparison of quotes, you can find the best policy for you at a great price. Consider the type of cover you require and take the time to read the small print of any policy to ensure you