Motorhome Insurance Guide: What’s Covered and What It Costs

What is motorhome insurance?

Motorhome insurance is designed for larger leisure vehicles that combine a driving cab with built-in living accommodation, such as A-class, coach-built and overcab motorhomes. Unlike a standard car, a motorhome represents both a vehicle and, in effect, a small mobile home, so policies typically need to address both the mechanical and habitation aspects of the vehicle.

Many motorhome policies offer agreed value cover, reflecting the fact that motorhomes can be expensive and their market value can fluctuate differently to standard cars, particularly for well-maintained or low-mileage examples. Cover can usually be tailored to how often the vehicle is used, from occasional weekend trips to full-time touring.

Who needs motorhome insurance?

Owners of any coach-built or A-class motorhome need appropriate cover, whether the vehicle is used for a few trips a year or as a primary means of travel and accommodation. This includes retirees touring extensively, families using a motorhome for holidays, and younger or newer drivers purchasing their first motorhome.

People who live in their motorhome full-time, sometimes called full-timers, may need a specific type of policy that reflects this use, as standard leisure vehicle policies often assume the vehicle isn't a primary residence. Those who hire out their motorhome to others also need specific hire cover rather than relying on a personal use policy.

What does motorhome insurance typically cover?

Comprehensive motorhome policies generally cover the vehicle, fixtures and fittings, and often contents, though the specifics vary between insurers and policy levels.

• Vehicle damage, fire and theft
• Fixtures and fittings, such as kitchen units and furniture
• Contents cover for personal belongings and equipment
• Awning cover, where applicable
• European cover for touring trips
• Cover for personal effects lost or damaged while away from the vehicle

What affects the cost of motorhome insurance?

The size, age and value of the motorhome are key factors, as larger and more expensive vehicles generally cost more to repair or replace. The owner's driving experience, including any specific experience with larger vehicles, is also taken into account, since motorhomes can require different handling to a standard car.

How the motorhome is stored when not in use — for example on a driveway, in a secure storage compound, or on the street — can influence pricing, as can annual mileage and whether the vehicle is used seasonally or year-round. Claims history and the chosen excess level also play their usual role in determining the overall price.

Tips for motorhome owners arranging insurance

Consider whether agreed value cover suits your motorhome, particularly if it's a higher-value model or has had significant upgrades fitted since purchase. If you plan to tour extensively in Europe, check the number of days of cover included as standard, since this varies and may need extending for longer trips.

• Ask about agreed value versus market value cover
• Check contents and awning cover limits against what you actually carry
• Consider secure storage, as this may be viewed favourably by some insurers
• Declare any habitation modifications or upgrades accurately
• Review European cover duration if you plan extended trips abroad

How to get a quote

Given the range of motorhome types, sizes and uses, a specialist broker can help identify cover that matches your vehicle and travel plans. Completing a short form with details of your motorhome allows a broker to provide tailored quotes, with no obligation to proceed.

Frequently asked questions

Is motorhome insurance compulsory?

Yes, as with any motor vehicle, you must have at least third party insurance to drive a motorhome legally on UK roads.

Does motorhome insurance cover my contents and equipment?

Many policies include some level of contents cover, though limits differ, so it's worth checking this matches the value of items you typically carry, such as outdoor equipment or electronics.

What if I live in my motorhome full-time?

Full-time living usually needs to be declared, as it can affect the type of policy required; some insurers offer specific cover for full-timers while others may not support this use.

Can I get insurance for an older or classic motorhome?

Yes, specialist insurers often cater for older and classic motorhomes, sometimes with agreed value cover reflecting their condition and any restoration work.

Does my policy cover driving in Europe?

Many motorhome policies include a set number of days of European cover as standard, with options to extend for longer touring trips.