Campervan Insurance in the UK: A Clear, Independent Guide

Why campervan insurance is different

Insuring a campervan in the UK isn’t quite the same as insuring a car, or even a motorhome. Conversions introduce modifications (seating systems, pop-top, gas and electrics) and contents (fridge, hob, solar, bikes, tech) that change the risk profile and value. Whether you own a ready-built Transporter or a self-build, the right policy should reflect how your van is used, what’s installed, where it’s kept, and how it’s secured.

Key policy types (and what they actually cover)

1) Third-Party Only (TPO)

Covers damage you cause to others. It does not cover your van. Rarely suitable for campervans due to the significant investment required for conversion.

2) Third-Party, Fire & Theft (TPFT)

Adds cover if your camper is stolen or damaged by fire, but still no cover for your own accidental damage.

3) Comprehensive

Covers third-party liability and your van for accidental damage, vandalism and some weather events (check perils). It’s the typical baseline for modern campervans.

4) Laid-up / SORN cover

If your van is off the road (SORN) during a build or winter, laid-up policies can cover fire & theft (and sometimes parts). Useful during long conversions.

Market value vs agreed value

Market value: The payout is based on typical sale prices at the time of the claim. Fine for standard vehicles, but often undervalues bespoke conversions.

Agreed value: You and the insurer agree on a figure upfront (supported by photos, invoices and a professional valuation). If your van is a high-quality conversion or heavily upgraded, an agreed value policy can protect your investment and help avoid disputes after a write-off.

What helps:

• Detailed photos (interior, exterior, VIN, mileage)

• Parts invoices (RIB seating, pop-top, electrics, heating, cabinets)

• A professional valuation letter or build summary (where requested)

  
  

Self-build, professional build, or part-finished?

Professional conversion: Typically, it is easiest to ensure that paperwork and workmanship are clear, and safety certificates can be provided.

Self-build: Perfectly insurable, but documentation is critical. Keep a build diary, receipts and photos. Insurers may require a habitation check or safety sign-offs (e.g., Gas Safe certification for LPG installations, electrical safety to relevant standards).

Part-finished: You can often insure a van that’s mid-build with a specialist or laid-up policy; let the insurer know what’s been fitted so far and what’s planned.

Declaring modifications, what must be listed

Insurers expect full disclosure of any changes from factory spec. For campervans, be ready to declare:

• Seating systems: RIB Altair or rock ’n’ roll (ideally with M1 documentation and professional fitting)

• Pop-top or high roof installations

• Gas installation (hob/heater) + ventilation; provide Gas Safe documentation where available

• Electrical system upgrades: leisure battery, DC–DC charger, solar, inverter, 230V hook-up

• Bodywork & wheels: suspension changes, tow bars, alloys

• Security: tracker/immobiliser, OBD protection, alarm

• Internal fit-out: fixed furniture, bed, cabinetry, additional windows

• Decals/wraps if material to risk or value

  
  

Why it matters: Non-disclosure can reduce or void a claim. If in doubt, declare it.

Contents & personal possessions: don’t overlook this

A campervan policy may cover fixed equipment (such as a fitted fridge or hob), but not always your personal belongings (like laptops, cameras, e-bikes, or paddleboards). Check:

• Camping equipment & clothing limits (often a set amount per claim)

• Electronics and e-bikes are sometimes excluded unless specified.

• Glass & windscreen cover (useful for large van screens)

• Whether your home contents policy extends to items temporarily in a vehicle (many don’t, or only at low limits)

  
  

Tip: Photograph high-value items and keep serial numbers. Consider a separate cycle/e-bike or gadgets cover if your budget is tight.

Use, mileage & drivers (the rating factors you control)

• Social, domestic & pleasure vs business use: If you occasionally work from the van, confirm whether that counts as “business use.”

• Mileage bands: Lower declared mileage can reduce premiums—be honest.

• Where it sleeps: Postcode, garaging, driveway vs street. Hard standings in well-lit, CCTV-covered areas help.

• Driver profiles: Named drivers, age, experience with similar vehicles, previous claims/convictions.

• Foreign travel: Ask about EU/EEA green card requirements and time limits per trip.

  
  

Security that can cut premiums (and stress)

• Thatcham-approved alarm/immobiliser

• GPS tracker (with subscription)

• OBD port lock/pedal box to deter theft

• Deadlocks / slamlocks on doors

• Discreet asset marking and documented photos

• A tidy pitch/drive: wheel turned to kerb, valuables out of sight, blackout screens at night

  
  

Beyond premiums, these steps reduce theft risk and can speed up police/insurer action if the worst happens.

Excess, NCD & extras you’ll be offered

• Excess: The amount you pay if you claim. A higher voluntary excess can lower premiums; set it at a level you can genuinely afford.

• No-claims discount (NCD): Consider NCD protection to preserve discounts after a claim, if available.

• Breakdown cover: UK and European options; confirm vehicle length/height limits, as well as recovery to your preferred garage.

• Legal expenses: Helps with uninsured loss recovery after a non-fault crash.

• Courtesy vehicle: Not always a campervan; check wording.

• Glass cover: Windscreen and window replacement without losing NCD (policy-dependent).

DVLA body type & documentation (what to keep tidy)

Whether your V5C states “Motor Caravan” or remains “Van/MPV” depends on DVLA criteria that can be strict. Insurers can cover either, but classification and workmanship evidence may influence the underwriting process. Keep:

• V5C details up to date

• Certificates and receipts (seat installation, Gas Safe, electrics)

• Service history and MOTs

• Recent photos (interior/exterior) and your mileage log

  
  

Good records make agreed value, claims handling, and resale smoother.

Typical mistakes (and easy wins)

Common pitfalls

• Under-declaring modifications or contents

• Assuming a car policy is “close enough”

• Forgetting to update the insurer after upgrades

• Skipping security because the van “sleeps on the drive”

Quick wins

• Ask for the agreed value if your conversion is bespoke.

• Provide photos + invoices at quotation stage (not just at claim)

• Fit tracker/immobiliser and mention it; premiums often reflect it.

• Store in a well-lit, locked area; note any CCTV or patrols

• Keep a simple inventory of the fitted kit and valuable items.

Claims: How to be ready on your worst day

• Safety first: document the scene once safe (photos/video, positions, surroundings).

• Exchange details and collect witness info.

• Report promptly with policy number, exact location/time, and a short factual account.

• Send evidence: photos of damage, receipts for upgrades, and your valuation docs.

• Follow the process: use approved repairers if required, and keep copies of all communication.

Prepared owners see faster outcomes and fewer disputes.

The Sinfin checklist to insure smarter

1. Decide market vs agreed value.

2. Gather photos + invoices (seating, pop-top, electrics, furniture).

3. List all modifications to declare.

4. Document security (tracker, alarm, locks).

5. Confirm use, mileage, EU travel needs, and storage.

6. Compare policies on contents, glass, breakdown, excess, and NCD.

7. Store all documents in a digital folder for quick quoting and claims processing.

Exclusive partner discount

If you choose to take out a policy with Sinfin’s insurance partner, you may be eligible for an exclusive discount up to 10% on your campervan insurance.

How it works:

• Ask us for an introduction and quote reference when you enquire.

• The insurer will confirm eligibility and apply the discount if the criteria are met.

**Availability and discount level are subject to the insurer’s underwriting criteria, your individual circumstances and policy terms. Sinfin Campervans does not provide financial advice; always review the policy wording and speak to a qualified adviser if you’re unsure.

Next steps

Want independent guidance and to see if you qualify for our partner discount?

Call us, and we’ll introduce you to our insurer partner for a tailored quote.

Explore our Services (conversions, upgrades, safety sign-off guidance)

See ready-to-drive Vans for Sale

Contact us to book a viewing or video consultation and request a partner-discount quote intro

**This guide is independent and intended for general information purposes only; always review your policy wording and consult a qualified adviser for personalised advice.

FAQs

Can I insure a camper I’m still converting?

Yes, ask about laid-up or build-in-progress cover and update the insurer as you add major components.

Do I need to be a “Motor Caravan” on the V5C to get campervan insurance?

Not necessarily. Many insurers will cover converted vans that are still registered as vans/MPVs; disclosure is key.

Will a pop-top increase premiums?

It can. It’s a material modification; declare it (including brand and installation).

Is wild camping covered?

Policies vary. Some exclude specific locations (e.g., off-road or within flood zones). Check wording and apply common sense.