Insuring Your Vintage RV

Straight from the pages of the Vintage Camper Trailers Magazine:
When insuring your vintage RV, seeking advice from a licensed agent in your state of residence is crucial. Insurance can be complex, with various policy types, coverages, and valuation considerations. This article will explore the options available to help you choose the best one for you.

​Liability Coverage: Protecting Yourself and Others
Liability coverage is a vital aspect of RV insurance, safeguarding you from legal liability for bodily injury and property damage caused to others. It is important to note that liability coverage does not cover injuries to you and your family or damage to your rig.

While liability coverage is legally required in almost every state for drivable RVs, it is not typically mandated for travel trailers that are towed. However, liability coverage for the tow vehicle extends to the towable RV while driving. (This may not be true with classic car insurance. Check with your agent.) The required minimum liability coverage varies by state and is usually expressed as minimum coverage limits in state laws.
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It’s essential to understand that state minimum coverages may not provide sufficient protection in the event of an RV accident. Larger RVs have the potential to cause significant bodily injury and property damage, which may exceed the state-required minimums. Opting for coverage limits higher than the minimum requirements is advisable. Some policies may even cover visitors to your trailer at a rally.

Uninsured and Underinsured Motorist Coverage: Protection When Others Fall Short
Uninsured and underinsured motorist coverage is another critical aspect of insurance for your vintage RV. This coverage protects you and your passengers when someone without insurance or with inadequate insurance coverage hits your RV. While it is required in about half of the states for motorhomes and tow vehicles (not for travel trailers), it is often available as an optional coverage in states where it is not mandatory.
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Uninsured and underinsured motorist coverage can be obtained for both bodily injury and property damage. It serves as a complement to liability coverage, ensuring that you and your loved ones are protected when someone else is at fault.

Comprehensive Coverage: Protecting Your Vintage RV from Unforeseen Events
Comprehensive coverage offers protection against various types of damage not covered by collision insurance. It covers damage resulting from:

• Impact with animals, including birds.
• Fire.
• Malicious mischief or vandalism.
• Falling objects or missiles.
• Riot or civil commotion.
• Theft or larceny.
• Damage caused by windstorms, hail, water, or floods.
• Breakage of glass not caused by a collision.

Reviewing your comprehensive policy to understand which specific scenarios are covered is important. Not all policies cover all the listed events, so clarifying the coverage details with your insurance provider is crucial. 

Total Loss Coverages: Protecting Your Investment
For vintage trailers and RVs, total loss coverages are often the best option. These coverages typically encompass most of the previously mentioned events (depending on the specific policy). The two common types of total loss valuation are:

1. Market Value (Actual Cash Value): This is the standard valuation method used by many insurance companies. In the event of a total loss, you would be paid the actual market or cash value of your RV at the time of the loss (minus the deductible). Insurance companies typically use sources such as NADA, Kelly Blue Book, or comparable market data to determine the pre-damage value. However, obtaining accurate market data for vintage trailers/RVs can be challenging, potentially resulting in the insurance company determining the value, regardless of any proof you provide.

​2. Agreed Value: This is an upgraded option (often requiring an additional premium) and is particularly beneficial for vintage RVs and travel trailers. With Agreed Value coverage, you and the insurance company agree on a specific value for your rig from the beginning, typically based on a professional vintage RV/trailer appraisal. In the event of a total loss, the insurance company will pay the agreed-upon value, regardless of the current market value. This coverage is advantageous for bus conversions, custom RVs, and vintage RVs/trailers without a standard market value. It is recommended to have an appraisal on file, even if it’s not explicitly required by the insurer, and update it every 4 to 5 years.

By having an Agreed Value policy, you are better protected because you receive the agreed value amount, regardless of any depreciation that may have occurred. This ensures that you can replace your vintage RV/trailer without experiencing financial hardship.

Establishing Your Trailer’s Value: Essential Documentation
To establish the value of your vintage trailer, several pieces of documentation are crucial:

• Proof of the purchase price, such as a bill of sale or Department of Motor Vehicles paperwork.
• Receipts for repairs and improvements.
• Detailed photos and videos of the interior, exterior, cabinets, undercarriage, roof, etc.
• An appraisal conducted by a recognized appraiser within the last 12 months. While some insurance companies may not require an appraisal, it is highly recommended to have one to avoid potential disagreements with the insurer in the future. Heintz Designs Vintage Trailer Restoration is one of the reputable sources for professional vintage trailer appraisals, offering convenient appraisal services based on detailed photos sent via email.

TIP: Collect ads for comparable trailers for sale to determine the market value. Although the asking price may not reflect the actual selling price, it provides a gauge of the market value. Condition is everything when it comes to accurately valuing a vintage trailer.

Protecting Your Vintage RV Investment
Insuring your vintage RV is not a decision to be taken lightly. It is crucial to understand the different coverage types, valuations, and appraisal needs to ensure your treasure is adequately protected. By consulting with a licensed insurance agent and considering the information provided in this article, you can make an informed decision and safeguard your vintage RV from potential risks and losses.

More articles in issues #68 and #42 of the Vintage Camper Trailers Magazine.