The Terms and Conditions of the RV Insurance Policy

What is the deductible for RV insurance?

The deductible is the portion of the claim amount that you are responsible for paying out of pocket. Not all insurers have a deductible. When they do, it’s often an amount up to €150. So, for a claim of €1,000, you’ll receive €850, assuming a deductible of €150. Insurers use a deductible to discourage policyholders from filing claims.

A higher deductible for young drivers

Young drivers often pay higher premiums until they turn 24. Insurers do this because young drivers cause more damage than older drivers. For some insurers, that’s not enough. They also include an additional deductible in the policy terms and conditions in case young drivers cause damage. Not all insurers do this.

Deductible for Windshield Damage

A different deductible applies to windshield damage. If the windshield does not need to be replaced, there is often no deductible. The insurer may refer you to a specific windshield repair shop in your area. However, if the windshield is replaced, a deductible often applies. The amount of the deductible depends on where you go to have the windshield replaced. Insurers may refer you to repair shops with which they have contracts.

The Replacement Cost Rule

For new or recently purchased RVs, the replacement value provision is an attractive option. In the event of a total loss of the RV, the claim is settled based on the RV’s replacement value. The replacement value provision may apply for one to three years. After this period, claims will again be settled based on the RV’s current market value.

Cost Basis Rule

This is similar to the replacement value provision, but this provision applies to used RVs. If this provision is included in the RV insurance policy in accordance with the policy terms and conditions, the RV’s purchase price will be used as the basis for a certain period. Did you buy the RV for €8,000? Then, for the purposes of settling a claim, this value will temporarily be used instead of the current market value.

Current market value of the RV

The current market value is the value of the RV immediately before the damage occurred. This value takes into account the age of the RV, as well as its condition and, for example, its mileage. It also considers how well the RV has been maintained.

Canceling Camper Insurance

Camper insurance has a standard term of one year. After the first insurance year, the policy is automatically renewed for another year. After the first insurance year, the policy can be canceled at any time. Some insurers require a one-month notice period. This is permitted. If you cancel the RV insurance on April 5, the insurer may terminate the policy effective May 5. If you sell the RV, the RV insurance can be canceled immediately. This makes sense, since there is no longer anything to insure. The insurance can also be canceled during the first year if you sell the RV.

Claims Management by the Insurer

Insurance companies use claim management for damage repairs. This means that you should preferably have your RV repaired at a repair shop designated by the insurer. They manage claims by, for example, lowering your deductible if you go to an affiliated repair shop. We also see this practice with glass repairs.

Driving Under the Influence of Alcohol

Insurance companies take a strict stance on claims involving drivers who were under the influence of alcohol. The insurer has the right to seek reimbursement for the amount of the claim from the party responsible for the damage. In a liability case, however, the other party’s damages are compensated. The insurer can then send the intoxicated party responsible for the damage a bill for the damages. In these types of recovery claims, the amounts involved can be substantial.

Other Exclusions

The policy terms and conditions list additional situations in which coverage does not apply. Examples include participating in speed competitions or renting out the RV. The RV insurance also does not provide coverage if you drive the RV without a valid driver’s license.

Security

If you’re involved in a collision while abroad, you may be required to post a bond. In extreme cases, the RV could be impounded. You might even end up in jail yourself. You’ll get the RV back once you pay a bond, which the insurance company will handle—even if a bond is needed to get you out of jail.

What are the key points to consider in the policy terms and conditions?

Reading policy terms and conditions isn't exactly fun. That's why we've summarized the most important points for you. Clear and straightforward.

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How do claim-free years work?

You can find the number of claim-free years you have on your policy statement. Not sure? Check with your insurer or insurance agent. This will prevent your premium from changing later if your claim-free years were incorrect.

Read all about building up your no-claims history

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What types of supplemental insurance are available?

Some supplemental insurance plans are very useful. We'll explain all the supplemental insurance options to you so you can make an informed choice.

Check out the pros and cons of supplemental insurance

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