Choosing the Right Caravan Insurance

Why Insurance Matters

Static caravans face risks like storm damage, escape of water, theft, and accidental damage. A suitable policy helps cover repair or replacement costs and protects your contents and liability if someone is injured in or around your caravan.

Types of Cover to Consider

• Structure (caravan) cover: storm, flood, fire, impact, vandalism.
• Contents cover: furniture, appliances, personal possessions.
• Accidental damage: breaks, spills, DIY mishaps.
• Escape of water: burst pipes or leaks (often winter-related).
• New-for-Old vs Market Value: replacement at today’s price vs current value.
• Public liability: injury or property damage claims from third parties.
• Loss of use/alternative accommodation: if your caravan becomes uninhabitable.

Key Things to Check in the Policy

• Sums insured: do the structure and contents limits match true replacement costs?
• Excesses: per-claim amounts; water damage and storm may have higher excesses.
• Winter conditions: drain-down requirements, minimum heating, park closure periods.
• Security requirements: door/window locks, alarms, anchoring; non-compliance can void claims.
• Age limits and condition: older caravans or previous damage may affect cover.
• Business use & sub-letting: check if occasional letting is allowed and on what terms.
• Territorial limits: ensure the park location and usage pattern are within scope.

Common Exclusions & Pitfalls

• Gradual wear and tear or poor maintenance.
• Frost/escape of water where drain-down/heating rules weren’t followed.
• Unattended periods beyond policy limits during closed season.
• Unauthorised alterations or non-standard installations.
• High-value items (e.g., e-bikes, jewellery) not specified.

Park Policies vs Your Own Policy

Some parks suggest preferred insurers or sell their own cover. You are usually free to choose your own, provided it meets the park’s minimum requirements (e.g., public liability level, named risks).

Ask the park for their written minimum standards and provide your insurer’s evidence (e.g., certificate of insurance) to avoid disputes.

How to Compare Policies (Quick Checklist)

1. List must-have cover: structure, contents, liability, escape of water.
2. Decide settlement basis: New-for-Old or Market Value.
3. Match sums insured: use realistic replacement values.
4. Compare excesses and exclusions: especially winter and closed-season rules.
5. Check conditions: drain-down, heating, security, occupancy limits.
6. Confirm proof required by your park: certificate or policy schedule.
7. Look at claims service: 24/7 helpline, approved repairers, timescales.

Making a Claim — Practical Tips

• Photograph damage immediately and prevent further loss where safe to do so.
• Keep receipts for maintenance, drain-down services, and security devices.
• Report incidents promptly and keep a log of dates, times, and contact names.
• Provide your park’s incident reports or witness statements if relevant.