kit car insurance Compare quotes to find the best insurance policy for you
UK kit car insurance is specialised insurance designed to cover vehicles that are built from a kit, often replicas or custom builds. It differs from standard car insurance by offering tailored protection for the unique nature of these vehicles, including coverage during construction, spare parts protection, and the ability to retain salvage if the car is written off.
Here’s a more detailed explanation:
What it covers:
Standard car insurance benefits:Kit car insurance typically includes coverage for fire, theft, and damage from accidents, similar to standard car insurance.
Build-up cover:This protects the kit and parts during the construction phase against accidental damage, fire, and theft.
Spare parts protection:Some policies offer higher limits for spare parts coverage.
Dismantled salvage:This covers the value of parts that haven’t been fitted to the car yet.
Salvage retention:Allows you to buy back your parts if the car is written off.
Agreed value:Some policies offer to pay out an agreed value if the car is written off rather than the market value.
Specialized features:Some policies may also include rally cover, personal accident cover, or cover for driving in the EU.
Why it’s needed:
Unique build process:
Kit cars are not standard vehicles, and their build process involves a lot of assembly and customisation.
Valuable investment:
Building a kit car often involves a significant investment, so specialised insurance is needed to protect that investment.
Customisation and modifications:
Kit car owners may make modifications or upgrades, which can affect the value of the vehicle.
Classic car characteristics:
Many kit cars are designed to resemble classic cars, and classic car insurance features, such as agreed value and limited mileage discounts, may be applicable.
Finding coverage:
Specialist insurers:Look for insurance companies that specialise in kit car or classic car insurance.
Compare quotes:Get quotes from multiple insurers to find the best coverage and price.
Consider your needs:Assess your specific needs and choose a policy that includes the features you want, such as build-up cover, salvage retention, or agreed value
Kit car insurance coverage in the UK: a detailed guide
Owning a kit car is a unique experience, allowing enthusiasts to craft their vehicles from scratch or assemble pre-made kits. However, the bespoke nature of these vehicles also necessitates a specialist approach to insurance, as standard car insurance policies often fall short in addressing the specific needs of kit car owners and builders.
Understanding kit car insurance
Unlike mass-produced vehicles, kit cars, whether built from a complete kit or assembled using a variety of components, require bespoke insurance cover that takes into account the unique construction process and individual characteristics of the vehicle. Specialist insurers and brokers are best equipped to navigate these complexities and provide tailored policies that address various stages, from initial construction to on-road use.
Stages of kit car insurance
1. Build-up insurance (or construction phase cover)
The journey to owning a roadworthy kit car begins with the acquisition of parts and the assembly process. During this critical phase, the individual components can be highly valuable, making insurance a crucial consideration even before the vehicle is complete. Build-up insurance, specifically designed for this purpose, provides coverage against risks such as:
Fire damage: Protecting against unforeseen fire incidents that may occur during the construction process.
Theft: Covering the loss of your valuable parts or the entire partially built vehicle due to theft.
Accidental damage: Some policies may extend to cover accidental damage that occurs while you’re assembling your kit car.
2. Goods-in-transit cover
Acquiring the necessary parts for your kit car often involves transportation. Goods-in-transit insurance safeguards against damage, loss, or theft of these components while they are en route to your location. Given the expense of individual components, this aspect of coverage can offer valuable peace of mind.
3. Road use insurance
Before you can legally drive your kit car on public roads, it must meet specific requirements and have appropriate insurance.
Individual Vehicle Approval (IVA) test: Your kit car must successfully pass an IVA test, conducted by the Driver and Vehicle Standards Agency (DVSA), to ensure it meets modern safety and environmental standards.
Vehicle registration: After passing the IVA, you must register your kit car with the DVLA to obtain a number plate.
Road risk insurance: Once registered, you will need a suitable level of road risk insurance, which typically mirrors standard car insurance options:
Third party only (TPO): The minimum legal requirement for driving on UK roads, covering only damages or injuries to other parties in an accident where you are at fault.
Third party, fire and theft (TPFT): Extends TPO cover to include protection for your kit car against fire, theft, and damage from attempted theft.
Fully comprehensive: Offers the highest level of protection, covering damages to your own kit car and injuries to yourself, even in accidents you cause, in addition to TPFT benefits.
Distinctive features of kit car insurance
Beyond the standard insurance options, specialist kit car policies often incorporate features designed to address the unique characteristics and potential vulnerabilities of these vehicles. These can include:
Agreed value cover: Unlike standard policies that typically pay out the market value in case of a total loss, some providers allow you to agree a predetermined value for your kit car when you take out the policy. This can be particularly important for kit cars, as their market value can be difficult to assess due to their bespoke nature and potential for value appreciation.
Salvage retention rights: If your kit car is written off, some policies grant you the right to retain the salvage (the remains of the vehicle). This can be beneficial for kit car owners who may wish to salvage valuable components or even attempt to rebuild the vehicle.
Spare parts cover: Specialist policies may offer dedicated cover for spare parts and accessories you keep in storage, recognizing their potential value.
Laid-up/SORN cover: If your kit car is kept off the road for an extended period, such as during the build phase or winter months, laid-up or Statutory Off Road Notification (SORN) cover can provide protection against risks like fire, theft, and malicious damage.
Factors influencing kit car insurance premiums
Similar to standard car insurance, several factors can influence the cost of kit car insurance premiums. These include:
Driver details: Your age, driving history, and claims record will be assessed to determine your risk profile.
Vehicle details: The make and model of your kit car, its engine specifications, and any modifications you have made will affect the premium.
Vehicle value: The agreed value of your kit car will directly impact the cost of your insurance.
Mileage: If you anticipate driving your kit car for a limited number of miles annually, you may be eligible for a limited mileage discount.
Security: The presence of approved security features, such as alarms, immobilisers, or tracking systems, can potentially reduce your premium.
Location and storage: Where you keep your kit car, particularly overnight, can influence the risk assessment and thus the premium.
Intended use: If you plan to use your kit car for specific activities like track days, rallies, or exhibitions, you may require additional cover, impacting the cost.
Finding appropriate kit car insurance
Finding the right insurance for a kit car may require exploring specialist providers who understand the unique needs of these vehicles.
Specialist insurers:Companies like, Heritage, and others specialize in kit car insurance and can offer tailored policies.
Insurance brokers: An experienced insurance broker can help you navigate the market and find competitive quotes from various specialist insurers.
Kit car clubs: Joining a recognized kit car club may provide access to exclusive discounts and preferential rates from partner insurers.
Key considerations
Documentation is crucial: Keep thorough records of your build process, including receipts for parts and photos at key stages, as this will be vital when obtaining insurance and registering your vehicle.
Disclose all modifications: Always inform your insurer about any modifications you make to your kit car, even seemingly minor ones, to avoid potentially invalidating your cover in case of a claim.
Compare policies carefully: Don’t automatically choose the cheapest policy. Ensure the level of cover, especially the agreed value, adequately reflects the investment of time and money you have put into your kit car.
By understanding the unique aspects of kit car insurance and exploring the options available, you can ensure that your passion project is adequately protected throughout its lifecycle, from garage build to open-road adventures.
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