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As the popularity of rooftop tents continues to grow among outdoor enthusiasts, it is essential to address a crucial yet often overlooked aspect of owning such a tent: insurance. In this instalment of our 31-part series on rooftop tents, we will explore the importance of having insurance, particularly focusing on the nuances of coverage for non-permanent fixtures on your vehicle.
THE IMPORTANCE OF INSURANCE
Insurance is designed to protect individuals and their property from unexpected events, such as accidents, theft, or damage. When it comes to rooftop tents, the rationale for securing appropriate insurance coverage extends beyond the tangible value of the equipment. It also encompasses liability. In the wilderness or even in a campground, accidents can happen, and being unprepared can lead to significant financial repercussions.
Theft Unfortunately, theft can occur even in seemingly safe areas. A rooftop tent, though securely attached to your vehicle, can be targeted by thieves. Without coverage, the loss of your investment could be financially devastating.
Accidental Damage Suppose you pitch your rooftop tent on a popular campsite. A sudden storm causes a tree branch to break, damaging your tent. Or, what if you overlooked a height restriction, such as in a car park?
All Other Risks Imagine water seeping unnoticed into the tent when it is closed, and the mattress or other material items are permanently damaged due to an onset of mould. These are also items that need to be replaced, along with a repair to the tent itself.
Given these scenarios, it becomes clear that being proactive about securing insurance is critical for anyone considering or currently owning a rooftop tent.
COVERAGE GAPS IN VEHICLE INSURANCE
One of the key challenges amidst the enthusiasm for rooftop tents is the common misconception about insurance coverage. Many vehicle owners assume that their car insurance extends to everything attached to or inside their vehicle, which often isn’t the case, especially for non-permanent fixtures like rooftop tents.
UNDERSTANDING THE LIMITATIONS OF VEHICLE INSURANCE
Vehicle insurance typically covers damages to the vehicle itself and may include losses incurred due to theft or damage while the vehicle is being driven. However, when it comes to accessories—such as rooftop tents—there is no one-size-fits-all approach:
Non-Permanent Fixtures Rooftop tents are considered non-permanent fixtures. As such, many standard car insurance policies do not automatically cover them as part of the vehicle itself. If your tent is damaged or stolen, standard vehicle insurance may leave you without compensation unless you add a specific endorsement for coverage.
Personal Property Coverage While your car insurance might cover personal belongings inside your vehicle (to a degree), rooftop tents are generally categorised differently due to their nature as a camping accessory. Therefore, they may not be considered as personal property in a vehicle while travelling, which means additional coverage is required.
Modifications If you have modified your rooftop tent or added specific features, such as a rooftop awning or additional bedding, those enhancements may also require additional insurance. Many standard policies may not cover modifications unless explicitly stated.
RECOMMENDED INSURANCE OPTIONS
To adequately cover your rooftop tent and associated risks, consider the following options:
Homeowners Insurance If you have homeowners insurance, check whether the policy covers personal property outside your home, including your rooftop tent. These policies can provide some level of coverage for belongings that are stolen or damaged while they are away from your residence.
Specialised Outdoor Gear Insurance Some companies cater specifically to outdoor gear and accessories, offering policies that cover items like rooftop tents, camping equipment, and sports equipment. This type of insurance typically provides broader coverage for damages and theft.
Endorsements and Riders Speak with your car insurance provider about adding an endorsement or rider that specifically covers your rooftop tent. This option can provide the benefit of keeping everything under one policy, while ensuring that your tent is adequately protected.
Regardless of the policy, you need to consider exactly what is covered and the level of compensation. Look for:
- Compensation at replacement value.
- Insurance cover around the clock and worldwide.
- Insurance cover at home and when travelling.
- Theft
- Damage
- Comprehensive cover against all eventualities.
CONCLUSION
First and foremost, do not fall into the trap of assuming your rooftop tent is covered by an existing insurance policy that you have taken out. Be proactive during the phase leading up to your purchase decision and ensure that your rooftop tent is adequately covered before you take receipt and/or mount it onto your vehicle.
Read the small print and, if in doubt, ask your insurance broker.
