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Is your car insurance policy fit for purpose?

5 minute read

Discover whether your car insurance policy is still fit for purpose, why you may need to make changes, and what policy class is best for you.

  • Reasons why your insurance policy may no longer be fit for purpose.
  • Classes of use: which car insurance policy is best for you?
  • How to amend your car insurance policy.
Many people go years without reviewing their car insurance, but it’s important to make sure your policy is still fit for purpose and for your lifestyle. In the last year or so, it’s likely you have spent more time at home and driving less, meaning you may have amended your policy. However, do these changes still suit you? Or, you may have recently changed jobs, which might result in increased or decreased mileage. Either way, perhaps it’s time to review your insurance policy.

Here at LV=, we’re passionate about ensuring everyone has the right insurance to suit them. We’ve outlined everything you need to know about finding the perfect policy that best suits how you drive and what you use your vehicle for.

Check you car insurance is still fit for purpose

Reasons why your insurance policy may no longer be fit for purpose

Changes to your job or address

Any factor that increases or decreases your mileage needs to be flagged to your insurer to ensure your policy is still fit for purpose. For example, you may have recently started using your car for both personal and professional purposes, so you’ll need to make sure your policy reflects this.

LV= Motor Underwriter, Murad Rangoon, states "if something changes, like where you keep the car, what you use it for, or you’ve made modifications, for example, you should update these details with your insurer right away otherwise this could invalidate your insurance.

Classes of use: which car insurance policy is best for you?

So, what are classes of use? These different insurance brackets decide how your vehicle is categorised regarding its purpose. It is how your insurer calculates the correct charges, which then dictates what you are covered and can claim for in the event of an accident, breakdown or break-in.

It's important you pick the right class of use when looking to make any changes to your vehicle's insurance policy. Put simply, if you insure your car under the wrong class, you could be refused a claim. Also keep in mind you can be prosecuted if you're found to be driving without insurance, or with the wrong level of cover.

There are six different classes of use, these include:

Social, domestic and pleasure (SDP)

This is the right policy for you if your car is used for errands, visiting family and friends, and going on holiday. It encompasses all non-work-related driving.

Social, domestic, pleasure and commuting (SDP+C)

This policy covers everything in SDP but should be chosen if you use your vehicle to drive to work and store it in a public car park (or any public space) during the day. This doesn't include train station car parks, for example, if you always take the train for your commute and park at the train station.

Business use (SDPC+B) (Classes 1, 2, and 3)

Business use policies are split between three classes, so it’s worth evaluating each policy type, and discussing with your insurer, to see which best suits you and your driving habits.
Generally, however, business use policies should be chosen if you use your car for your job – not just to get to it. This includes visiting clients, for example, if you are a healthcare worker, or travel-based hairdresser or beautician.
In classes 2 and 3, this can also include another named driver, or driving colleagues, clients, or stock around as part of your regular role.

Commercial

In some aspects a commercial policy may overlap with business insurance, so you should make sure you’re best suited to this policy type before making your decision. The commercial class is right for those who are on the road for the majority of the day, either carrying people and goods – for example, driving instructors and taxi drivers.

How to amend your car insurance policy

It’s important to note that you can make changes to your policy at any time, and these changes will usually take effect immediately. If you need to adapt your policy in any way, you can call LV on 0330 678 5111 and we will guide you through the process.
You should make sure you have all your insurance documents at hand before calling us, so we can make the process as quick and easy for you as possible.
Do you have more questions about your car insurance policy? Check out our handy FAQs page.

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If you’re concerned that your policy is no longer fit for purpose, our comprehensive car insurance ensures you can drive happily knowing you’re covered for anything. Visit our site or call us to find your perfect policy.