What security do I need to insure my motorhome?

Your motorhome gives you the freedom to go off and explore. But it’s also an expensive asset and attractive to thieves, so it’s essential to have the right motorhome insurance cover to insure your freedom. But what security devices might your motorhome insurer need you to fit before it can offer cover?

Motorhome insurance security requirements

Many specialist motorhome insurance providers will have specific requirements when it comes to security to reduce potential thefts and for your peace of mind. Meeting these security requirements not only protects your motorhome but it can also lead to a reduced insurance premium. Caravan Guard’s specialist motorhome insurance rewards security conscious owners with some special savings.

Essential security measures for motorhome insurance

Specific security requirements can vary among motorhome insurance providers, but extra precautions will likely be a condition of cover if your motorhome is of a high value. Where you store your motorhome is also a key factor when buying insurance.

Make sure you speak with your motorhome insurance provider to understand their specific security requirements. Discussing your motorhome’s security features and receiving information on the extra measures they might need you to take can help you tailor your motorhome security to meet your policy cover criteria. This also makes sure you’re fully aware of what’s expected and that you’re adequately covered in the event of a theft.

Immobilisers: Almost all motorhomes registered since 2000 will have a manufacturer fitted or Thatcham Category 2 approved immobiliser. These devices prevent your motorhome from being started without the correct key, reducing the risk of theft.

All motorhomes we insure will need to have an immobiliser or an approved steering wheel lock (see below).

Motorhome alarm: Install an alarm system with motion sensors and entry detectors to deter potential thieves and alert you to any unauthorised entry.

For motorhomes above a certain value we ask for extra security such as a Thatcham Category 1 approved alarm (although you could consider a tracking device instead – see below). Category 1 systems combine an alarm and an engine immobiliser. We also accept Thatcham Category 2 to 1 upgrade devices, which can be fitted to motorhomes already fitted with Thatcham Category 2 approved or factory fitted immobilisers to attain Category 1 status. If you have a Cat 1 alarm fitted we do give a sizeable insurance discount.

Steering wheel locks: These locks prevent the steering wheel from being turned, making it difficult for thieves to drive away with your motorhome.

For some lower value motorhomes that don’t have a Cat 1 alarm, we will accept an approved steering wheel lock. A small insurance discount is available when fitted.

Tracking devices: Motorhome tracking systems can help locate your motorhome in case it’s stolen, increasing the chances of recovery.

If insuring a higher value motorhome we will require an S7 or S5 approved tracking device to be fitted to your motorhome.

We offer our biggest insurance security discount for tracking devices.

If your motorhome is of a high value then it’s likely a Thatcham S5 approved tracking device will need to be fitted as well as a Thatcham Category 1 approved alarm system (although some S7 devices are still accepted at this value). Caravan Guard will also ask for specific secure storage requirements too.

See our guide to motorhome tracking devices here: www.caravanguard.co.uk/news/guide-to-motorhome-tracking-systems-22024

Other security measures to protect your motorhome

Secure storage: If you’re not able to store your motorhome securely off road at home, storing it at a secure, monitored storage site could reduce the risk of theft and damage, and attract an insurance discount. But it is also a good idea to visit the storage site regularly and check your motorhome is safe and secure.

If storing your motorhome at home, consider parking behind a locked post or gates, as well as parking nose first which makes it harder for thieves to steal.

Wheel clamps: A good quality wheel clamp will prevent your wheel from turning and are a good visible deterrent. Check out our guide to motorhome wheel clamps and locks.

We offer a motorhome insurance discount for some physical security devices.

Pedal locks: These devices lock the motorhome clutch and brake pedal together or have a box which locks over your vehicles foot pedals.

Apart from security requirements, several other factors influence your motorhome insurance cover and costs. These include the motorhome’s value, mileage, your claims history, driver age and occupation, and storage location.

Also see our motorhome insurance guide and our interactive guide to motorhome theft protection.