Everything to know about private van insurance

A van insurance policy safeguards the insured driver. Even if the primary purpose of your van is for personal use, you must get an appropriate policy that adequately covers you and provides peace of mind.

There are two types of van insurance:

• Private van insurance
• Business van insurance / commercial van insurance

What is private van insurance?

Private van insurance is designed to financially protect individuals who use their vans for personal purposes. If you own a van and use it for non-commercial activities, such as family outings, hobbies or recreational activities, private van insurance is what you need.

What is the difference between private van insurance and business van insurance?

The main difference between private van insurance and business van insurance lies in the purpose for which the van is used.

Why do you need private van insurance?

Buying private van insurance can be beneficial for several reasons, including:

• It is a legal requirement in Ireland to have at least third-party-only insurance coverage for your private van.
• It provides financial security in case of accidents, theft, or damages to your van.
• It covers medical expenses in case the driver or the passengers are injured in a road accident.
• Insurance policies can be customized to your specific needs and budget.
• If you are at fault in an accident and it results in injury or property damage to others, private van insurance covers your legal liabilities.
• Van insurance gives peace of mind knowing that you are protected from potential risks and accidents.

What does private van insurance cover?

Private van insurance only covers you if you're using your van for personal or social uses. Some examples of personal uses are:

• Hobbies and recreational activities
• Family outings
• Grocery shopping
• Transporting belongings
• Emergency transportation

More specific coverage depends on the level of insurance you choose.

What level of private van insurance do I need?

There are three levels of private insurance available. They are:

Comprehensive cover

• You'll be covered for third-party claims and damage.
• This will cover damage to your van.
• This will also cover medical expenses in case of your injury.

Third-party, fire and theft (TPFT)

• This covers third-party claims
• This also includes your loss or damage due to fire or theft.

Third-party only (TPO)

• This will cover third-party claims.
• This will NOT cover damage to yourself or your van.

How much does private van insurance cost?

If you're driving a van for social reasons only, there's only a slight difference in cost between van and car insurance. These are the average prices of fully comprehensive private van insurance, based on usage:

• Social use only - €394
• Carriage of own goods - €458
• Goods for hire and reward - €1,364
• Haulage - €1,100

What policy add-ons can you get with private van insurance?

You can get the following additional coverage with your private van insurance:

• Equipment
• Courtesy vehicles
• Legal costs
• Keys and windscreen
• Personal accidents
• Breakdowns
• Driving abroad

Documents required to get private van insurance

It is important to provide up-to-date and accurate information so you can get appropriate coverage. Following are the details required for private van insurance:

• Personal details like your name, age, address, etc.
• Van information like model, year of manufacture, etc.
• The intended usage of the van
• Your driving experience and history
• Security or anti-theft devices installed in the van
• Additional driver, if there are any.

Are you looking for private van insurance?

Having private van insurance keeps you compliant with the law. It also ensures that you and your van are protected from unforeseen events. It gives you the freedom to use your van without worries.

Paddy Compare can help you get cheap private van insurance! You can compare different prices and insurance terms to find the plan that best suits your needs. Simply follow the given steps: