This years foray into the California insurance market

[Vagophile]

I was recently told by my present insurer (Ripe) that they wouldn't be able to insure me any more because of my age.
As LV are often referenced on here they were an obvious candidate for a quote, but I also decided to get a market flavour by using the comparison site QuoteZone. I duly completed their on line questionnaire; the only non standard answer was that I included a solar panel as a non factory fitted extra. I already have two other vehicles, so my mileage was set at only 4k miles, comprehensive insurance required.
Results Motor-Vision - £334.78
Performance Direct £344.40
Grove and Dean £357.40
Adrian Flux Three levels of cover at £922.29, £1015.89 and £1052.29 (!!)
Seven providers were "unable to provide a quote" no reason given, but age most likely.
One provider was "unable to quote because of modifications"
This is where the fun starts.
I tried LV, standard replies except addition of a solar panel as a non factory fitted extra. Result: "Unfortunately, cannot provide a quote because of modifications."
So, looking at the QuoteZone results, the three lowest quotes were policies with Allianz. Motor-Vision are part of Grove and Dean but different premiums.
The final decider? On viewing documents from Motor-Vision, the insurance provider was stated to be LV Motorhome!
As Motor-Vision have a 4.5 Trust Pilot rating, they have got my business for the coming year.

 

[Hawthorn37]

Quite bizarre outcome, but glad you got an acceptable quote ! It’s also worrying how many companies seem to have an ageist mindset!!

 

[Perfectos]

If the solar panels are not permanently fixed to the vehicle (as in most California after market kits) i.e not attached permanently, it is not a modification that should need to be declared, no more than roof bars or a cycle rack or snow chains, or loose seat covers, additional carpets etc

 

[Vagophile]

i.e not attached permanently, it is not a modification that should need to be declared,

Interesting viewpoint. So your view is that a solar panel bolted to the roof on four corners or stuck to the roof is not attached permanently? I'm not looking for an argument, but I wonder what view insurers take?

 

[colintfcolintf]

Interesting viewpoint. So your view is that a solar panel bolted to the roof on four corners or stuck to the roof is not attached permanently? I'm not looking for an argument, but I wonder what view insurers take?

I declared my 3 panels, made no difference to premium

 

[Perfectos]

Interesting viewpoint. So your view is that a solar panel bolted to the roof on four corners or stuck to the roof is not attached permanently? I'm not looking for an argument, but I wonder what view insurers take?

Stuck to the roof = permanent addition
Fix to the roof rails = accessories, can but removed & re fitted at will and not part of the vehicle (essentially a roof rack & battery charger)

 

[Perfectos]

Example

https://www.axa.co.uk/car-insurance/tips-and-guides/do-car-modifications-affect-my-insurance/

 

[KevH]

Example

https://www.axa.co.uk/car-insurance/tips-and-guides/do-car-modifications-affect-my-insurance/

I am reading this thread with interest as I recently had a towbar fitted, but that's another story.
Anyway, I've clicked the link and can't see mention of a solar panel.
But there is a big mention of the risks of not declaring stuff, so my take on this is if in doubt, tell them.
Just a thought, but if a non-declared solar panel caused a fire, would the insurer pay out? I personally doubt it.

 

[Cali Phillip]

I declared my 3 panels, made no difference to premium

Mine neither with Safeguard

 

[Perfectos]

I am reading this thread with interest as I recently had a towbar fitted, but that's another story.
Anyway, I've clicked the link and can't see mention of a solar panel.
But there is a big mention of the risks of not declaring stuff, so my take on this is if in doubt, tell them.
Just a thought, but if a non-declared solar panel caused a fire, would the insurer pay out? I personally doubt it.

Did you declare the propriety: tow bar and who / by whom it was fitted ?
what was the insurer take on the mod ? , was it considered an additional risk ?


My advise, If you are in doubt, declare it, that's why I posted the article above. Make an informed decision based on your insurers guidance

"Many of these mods don’t reduce the chance of accidents. But unlike performance and transmission upgrades, they don't increase the possibility of accidents, either.

For more information, check your policy wording in your online account. "

I suspect how the panel is mounted may play a factor in determining risk :

"When glued to roofs, yes, they get very hot. This is why we don't glue panels down any more. Ours are all bolted down and the nature of the design means there is always a small air gap underneath."

When declaring , make sure the insurer / underwriter has all the facts to enable an informed full assessment of the potential additional risk.