All you need to know about self-build campervan insurance

Are you one of those rare and lucky individuals who are blessed with a traveller’s spirit? If you answered yes, then your heart is at the utmost peace when venturing out on the open roads. Looking for your next adventure? Then my friend, you are in the right place as we will teach you how about self-build camper vans and how you can obtain insurance for them to protect yourself and your family whilst out on your journey.

Campervans are a preferred choice of transport in the United Kingdom. However, if you are our kind of person who enjoys and excels at DIY projects, then you might not like those off the shelf campervan models. An increasing number of holiday makers are now choosing to procure a campervan and customise it as per their requirements. No mate, you do not need to be an automobile expert, mechanic or a carpenter in order to be able to perform such changes.

First things first, let’s discuss what a self-build camper van is.

Usually, these vans are not constructed from the ground up, but are vans that are modified to become campervans. The Ford Transit LWB, Mercedes Sprinter and Citroen Berlingo are popular models to use for conversion due to their properties.

With plenty of space inside to fit in a bed and a kitchen, they’re also a lot friendlier on the wallet. Whether you embellish your van a lot or make small changes, you will require a strong, effective self-build campervan insurance policy.

How does a van transform into a campervan?

If you want your van to be classified as a campervan, you must have the following:

• A water storage container
• A seating option that can convert into a bed for sleeping
• A cooking area with gas
• At least one window in the living area
• A door with access to the living area

Now that you know what classifies a vehicle as a campervan it’s time to learn how you can obtain self-build campervan insurance.

How can I get my self-build vehicle reclassified?

If you have converted a standard van into a campervan, then legally you are required to re-register it at the Driver and Vehicle Licensing agency. Here is what you will need to do:

1. Complete section 7 of the V5C form
2. Provide visual proof of the changes and amendments you made

Your pictures must include interior pictures of all the furniture you will be using. For instance, make sure you capture your bed, table, sofa, chairs, kitchen space and such. Write a clear, succinct description of each and every item that you are submitting on the back of each photograph along with the date and registration number of your campervan. If there are any engineer reports relating to the conversion, do not forget to submit that in as well. Provide a letter that outlines why you are requesting a reclassification of your vehicle and include the date you completed all your modifications to your new self-build campervan home. The Driver and Vehicle Licensing Agency may require toinspect your vehicle if they feel the documentation is insufficient. Give them open access!

What is self-build campervan insurance?

There is a whole world of motorhomes out there, waiting to be conquered by you. They range from A class motorhomes, low profile, American motorhomes, race trucks, campervans and coach-built motor caravans. But of course, for you, there is nothing better than creating your very own personalised home on wheels. To do this, you will need to obtain a myriad of parts from variant producers. You will have to go to a self-build insurance specialist, so you can protect all the hard work you’ve poured in your campervan conversion.

What criteria do I need to get self-build campervan insurance?

You need to provide your insurance service provider with a list of all the changes you have made to your van in order to change it into a campervan. They will provide a quote accordingly. If you have not registered your personalised vehicle as a motorhome, do not worry. There are a few steps you can take to still see if you qualify for self-build campervan insurance. Depending on the insurance company, generally, you will be requested to provide at least five pictures that cover the following:

1. Showing the back side of the vehicle and the second side of the vehicle, with the number plate clearly visible
2. Showing the interior section from front to the back of the vehicle, the inner section to the back to the front and a general image reflecting the entire interior conversion
3. Showing the side of the vehicle with the number plate and the front section in full view

It is most likely that you will have to share these pictures within three to six months.

Some insurance firms that offer self-build campervan insurance may provide additional amenities such as valuation services, salvage retention, breakdown cover, European travel coverage and such. If you reach out to insurance brokers during the planning stages of your campervan conversion project, they will be able to adjust their policies and quotes based on your modifications. Some companies work in changes for free whilst others may charge a small fee for it. Just do your homework and research the market based on what your preferences are.

What are the benefits of self-build campervan insurance?

All general, standard and modified campervan homes are considered for the policy. It does not matter whether they are owned by individuals or utilised for commercial purposes, they will qualify for most insurance policies. Some even offer Camper Van Club Discounts.

Protection for all kinds of accidents is offered as well. We know you will not need it as you are an absolutely brilliant driver.

Investing in self build campervan insurance policies will provide a blanket of security on you and your travelling partners. Knowing that you are being responsible and have taken steps to ensure protection will give you peace of mind. This way, you will enjoy your travels even more as you will be free from any kind of fear.