Small Van conversion ideas/suggestions?

[robjmckinney]

kangooroo good and valid points

The problem I had with insurance was the simple fact I don't work which does not compute with insurance companies. Why do I need a van, they don't insure unemployed people for vans, I am not unemployed but don't work, sorry you can't be not working unless unemployed, the circle continues. The issue is a differcult but if you are working then perhaps remain a van but non working is a minefield unless you fit into their nice restrictive boxes!

 

[kangooroo]

Rob - I encountered this too. If you try NU or Direct Line they offer SD&P use on a van. They were the only companies to do this when I was in the same position.

The only 'commercial use' I need is 12 miles per week to make 2 trips to the post office - hardly worth the bother but if I had a bump whilst carrying goods, I'd have no cover which is a risk not worth taking.

 

[robjmckinney]

Converted van to motorhome complete

I solved this 3 years ago to convert it completely within the regs to motorhome. I was getting quotes for £1200, yet I arrange my brother's policy as a builder for £200 all in with no NCB, I had full. Now I get insured for around £250 the game is finding a way through it!

Insurance is a main problem because so many grey areas and they will use any excuse to cancel the policy. You are modifying your vehicle even with a part conversion and they do get awkward these days!

 

[kangooroo]

I assume then that you weren't allowed any business use or carriage of goods?

My problem is that I'm trying to use just one vehicle for both camping (I don't need a full conversion - just basics) and a twice-weekly 6 mile round trip to the post office carrying goods which insurers don't like!

 

[Firefox]

with a 12v microwave, I have no need for a cooker. Hence, according to the 'rules' it can't be insured as a motorhome. If it were, then I couldn't use it as a van - which I need to carry goods.

It may not help you, but I have definitely seen in some policies that a microwave OR a hob OR both are now often acceptable. Basically any means of heating food in a fixed installation.

 

[kangooroo]

The problem is that ... once it becomes a 'camper' then business use and carrying goods isn't allowed so I think it's back to the basic van adaptation with cupbards that adapt for camping on 'occasional' trips....