Your quick guide to classic car insurance

Dec 8, 2022
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When it comes to insurance, our industry doesn’t always conform to a standard definition of what is a classic car. The two constants you’ll see are classic and antique. Some consider classic to be an automobile that’s 10 or more years old and is rare or of historic interest. And antique is considered an automobile that’s 25 or more years old.

But insurance policies could have a number of other sub categories your car might fit in to. Like ‘replica’ or ‘modern classic’. We work with our clients to make sure the definition in the policy is the right match for the vehicle they own.

Classic car insurance comes with stricter conditions

Classic car insurance is only available if you use the vehicle very sparingly. So for parades or classic car shows. If you need to start using it for your commute to work, it no longer sits in the classic car camp. Some insurers will want to see you’ve got another car for daily use for your classic car to be covered by the specialist policy.

Insurers will also expect classic car owners to keep their cars well maintained, and it’s likely they’ll want your classic to be stored securely too. Older vehicles don’t have the security systems we’ve come to take for granted in modern day vehicles, so insurers will ideally want to know your classic is locked away in a garage.

But it does mean policies can be cheaper

With all that in mind it does mean your classic car insurance policy can be cheaper than your standard car insurance policy. You’re not racking up nearly the same amount of miles, so you’re less likely to make a claim. And insurers know most owners keep their classics well looked after.

However, that doesn’t mean you should opt for the cheapest policy – that can often mean you’ve agreed to an annual mileage cap that isn’t sufficient and you could be left uninsured. With Varney, your agent will make sure the mileage cap is just right for you.

Work with Varney to insure your Classic Car at the right value

A key difference from a standard auto policy is the value of the vehicle. As every classic car is unique, there’s no set price for specific makes and models. It’s why we always confirm an ‘agreed valuation’ in the policy for our clients. This way, the insurer recognizes the money and care you’ve put into the vehicle, as opposed to just settling on a price that may replace it.

So if the worst happens, and your special car is totalled, the insurer will pay the true value of the vehicle and what you’ve invested into it. Or at least a sum that’s close.

Agreed value works by proposing a value to the insurer, and they then agree or propose an alternative amount. Going with Varney means we can negotiate on your behalf and help you get an agreed value you’re happy with.

Get a quote for your Classic car from us

Speak to one of our agents today. Get in touch with a few details and we’ll be back in touch to start tailoring your classic car insurance policy.

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To find out more about the various insurance and risk solutions we have to help you protect what’s important to you, contact us today.

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