Montague/registered camper with conversion as a daily?

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Laz
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Montague/registered camper with conversion as a daily?

Post by Laz » Tue Jul 23, 2024 7:09 pm

Does anyone have a converted Bongo insured as their main or only vehicle, i.e social, domestic and pleasure with commuting?
I haven't collected my new Bongo (actually registered as a Montague) yet but I've had a couple of quotes and been told that as it's been converted it has to be insured on a specialist camper-van policy and that no underwriter will allow everyday/primary vehicle use. This seems unlikely and a little ridiculous to me. I haven't approached any of the clubs recommended insurers yet, I wanted to get some guidance first.


Plus the Bongo quotes I've had (with 3 years NCB) are a fair bit higher than what I pay to insure an old Mercedes V8 on a "leisure" policy (doesn't use, or accrue NCB) which is mad considering the restrictions on use for both are practically the same.
1995 2wd diesel auto Montague with rear conversion and AFT.
Bob
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Re: Montague/registered camper with conversion as a daily?

Post by Bob » Tue Jul 23, 2024 10:33 pm

I've always found Adrian Flux good.
Take a torch, toilet roll, and tea bags.

https://m.youtube.com/watch?v=hcF9JSxkUSE
WanderWaves
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Re: Montague/registered camper with conversion as a daily?

Post by WanderWaves » Wed Jul 24, 2024 3:38 am

Converted camper-vans like your Bongo often need special insurance, which can sometimes be more costly and limiting. It is good idea to look around with insurers who know about these types of vehicles or talk to camper-van clubs for advice on where to get the best coverage. The bigger cost compared to your Mercedes is probably because of the special risks that come with changed cars.
WanderWaves
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Re: Montague/registered camper with conversion as a daily?

Post by WanderWaves » Wed Jul 24, 2024 3:38 am

Converted camper-vans like your Bongo often need special insurance, which can sometimes be more costly and limiting. It is good idea to look around with insurers who know about these types of vehicles or talk to camper-van clubs for advice on where to get the best coverage. The bigger cost compared to your Mercedes is probably because of the special risks that come with changed cars.
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marionw
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Re: Montague/registered camper with conversion as a daily?

Post by marionw » Sat Jul 27, 2024 4:22 pm

I am also with Adrian Flux.
My bongo is my only vehicle and with a Montague conversion.
Never had any issue with insuring it.
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g8dhe
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Re: Montague/registered camper with conversion as a daily?

Post by g8dhe » Sat Jul 27, 2024 4:38 pm

Its probably the Commuting bit that makes it so much more expensive ?
Geoff
2001 Aero V6, AFT, full side conversion.
Laz
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Re: Montague/registered camper with conversion as a daily?

Post by Laz » Mon Jul 29, 2024 10:09 pm

Thank you all. Insurance is one of those things that I really ought to consider before buying a vehicle but it boars me so much I can't bring myself to.

I've joined the club now so have access to the insurance offers within. I'll start ringing around tomorrow and see if I can get it below £500 at least..

@g8dhe That was without commuting and as a second vehicle. I was told no underwriter would cover me for everyday/only vehicle use on a converted van. This was from the broker all my other policies are through.

BTW I'm 42, no convictions, 12 years NCB on one policy and 3 on another, though none are available as it were. Small, quiet town in Cornwall with private parking. Three other vehicles to use (I'm not bragging, I just have a lot of old tat and a poorly managed compulsion to have more projects than I can make time for...)
Maybe I should look at a fleet policy..
1995 2wd diesel auto Montague with rear conversion and AFT.
WanderWaves
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Re: Montague/registered camper with conversion as a daily?

Post by WanderWaves » Tue Jul 30, 2024 3:06 am

I completely get your frustration! It is strange they do not permit using a converted Bongo as the main vehicle. I would check the specialist insurers from the clubs; they perhaps have better choices. It is too bad about the high quotes, especially when you compare them with your old Mercedes. Good luck finding something reasonable.
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BongoAlf
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Re: Montague/registered camper with conversion as a daily?

Post by BongoAlf » Tue Jul 30, 2024 2:00 pm

Hi and welcome

Recently bought a Bongo and insured through A Plan - now known as Howdens.

The on boarding was very good and I have both social and commuting on my policy.

They have a dedicated camper van team who should be able to offer you something,

Given them a try and see how you get on.

Good luck.

Regards,
Ric.
1998 Diesel AWD AFT Side Camper Conversion.
Be yourself everyone else is already taken
– Oscar Wilde
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