Van insurance—questions to ask

Does the policy cover business use?
If you use your van for business, make sure the van insurance policy covers business use and not just social, domestic and pleasure use.

Will the van insurance cover items left in the van?
Van insurance comes in many forms with multiple levels of cover. If you regularly leave the tools of your trade in your van or carry goods, you may need a van insurance policy that specifically covers you for this. Van insurance policies vary greatly. Some will require you to insure goods or tools separately.

Does the van insurance offer a courtesy van?
If your van has to go in for repairs or you're involved in an accident, does the van insurance guarantee to offer you a replacement vehicle while yours is off the road? Your business could lose out if you are without a vehicle even for just one day. So, at the very least, choose a van insurance policy that guarantees to get repairs done quickly.

Is breakdown cover included?
As most vans are heavily used, your chances of breaking down are relatively high, so find out if the van insurance includes breakdown cover.

Will you get a no-claims bonus?
Some van insurance companies will give you a no-claims bonus if you have one on your car. Likewise, your premium is likely to reflect your experience of driving. Generally, van insurance tends to be a lot more expensive for the under 25s.

Is there a discount for insuring more than one van?
Some van insurance companies offer a multi-van discount. So if you're planning to insure more than one vehicle, it's worth asking for a discount.

How much is the excess?
Check how much you will be expected to pay out in the event of a claim. You may be able to lower your van insurance premium if you agree to a higher voluntary excess.