1. How do I get a quote?
Simply contact our team — we’ll discuss your business activities and arrange a tailored quote from reputable insurers.
2. What is Motor Trade Insurance?
Motor trade insurance is designed for businesses that buy, sell, repair, service, valet or transport vehicles. It provides cover for customer vehicles and trade vehicles in your care, as well as road risk cover if you need to drive them on public roads.
3.Who needs Motor Trade Insurance?
If your business handles vehicles that you do not personally own — even occasionally — you usually require a motor trade policy. This includes mechanics, dealerships, body shops, valeters, mobile technicians, recovery operators and MOT stations.
4. What is the difference between Road Risk and Combined Motor Trade Insurance?
Road Risk Insurance covers you for driving your own vehicles or customer vehicles on public roads.
Combined Motor Trade Insurance includes road risk plus additional protection such as premises, tools, machinery, stock vehicles, parts and liability cover.
Most established garages or dealerships choose a combined policy for broader protection.
5. Can I get Motor Trade Insurance if I’m a home-based trader?
Yes (Sometimes!). Most Insurers are reluctant to offer policies. Checks are undertaken to ensure you have the necessary experience and operate with the intention of making a profit.
6. Are demonstration or test drives covered?
Yes, provided you have the appropriate level of road risk cover. Your policy can include accompanied or unaccompanied demonstration cover, allowing test drives for potential buyers. This is essential for car sales businesses.
7. Does Motor Trade Insurance cover tools, equipment and diagnostic machines?
These items are not automatically included but can be added. A combined motor trade policy can protect your tools, specialist equipment, ramps, tyre machines, paint booths, computer diagnostics and other workshop machinery.
8. Are customer vehicles covered while in my custody or on my premises?
Yes. Motor trade policies cover vehicles in your custody, care and control against accidental damage, fire and theft. For businesses with a workshop or yard, “premises cover” can be added to protect vehicles stored on-site.
9. Do I need Employers’ Liability and Public Liability Insurance?
If you employ staff — even part-time or temporary — Employers’ Liability is a legal requirement in the UK. Public Liability is strongly recommended for all motor traders, as it protects you if a customer or visitor is injured on your premises or due to your work.
10. Can I use a Motor Trade policy for my personal vehicles?
Motor trade insurance may allow you to add your personal vehicles, but this depends on your insurer’s terms and the nature of your business. It cannot be used as a replacement for personal car insurance if you do not operate a genuine motor trade activity.
At Munro-Greenhalgh, we work with reputable insurers to find the most competitive and suitable policy for your specific needs.
