Insurance

We’ve teamed up with Howden to help you save money on van insurance

When leasing a van, insurance is not only a legal requirement, it’s also a key part of protecting your livelihood. Whether you use small vans for deliveries or operate a fleet of large commercial vehicles, having the right insurance ensures you’re covered if the unexpected happens. This guide outlines your options, what affects your premium, and how to make sure you’re properly covered without overpaying.

How to Choose the Right Policy

Because we understand not everyone has the time to scrutinise every detail of an insurance policy, we work with Howden Insurance to help you find the right cover with confidence. As an independent broker, their focus is on finding a policy that genuinely suits your needs, not pushing a one-size-fits-all product.

So why not work with us and Howden Insurance to secure the right level of protection at a competitive price?

Their experts will:

1. Listen to your requirements and understand how you use your van.
2. Compare policies from a panel of trusted insurers to find the right balance of cover and cost.
3. Explain optional extras and whether they make sense for you.
4. Support you throughout the policy term, including help with mid‑term changes and claims.

Where we fit in:

Through VanLeasing.com, we act as a straightforward point of contact, helping connect you with the right insurance support without adding complexity. Whether you’re arranging cover alongside a lease or reviewing an existing policy, we help ensure the process is clear, relevant, and aligned with how your business actually operates.

It’s not about selling you insurance, it’s about making sure you’re properly covered, without overpaying or overlooking the details that matter.

Why Van Insurance Matters

Just as cars must be insured to drive on public roads, vans require at least third‑party cover to be legal. However, most businesses and private drivers need broader protection.

A suitable van policy can:

Meet legal obligations. Driving without insurance is illegal and can lead to fines, penalty points and vehicle seizure.
Protect your finances. Cover for accidental damage, theft and liability claims prevents repairs or compensation from coming out of your own pocket.
Safeguard your business. If your van is vital for work, a policy with replacement‑vehicle cover keeps you moving even if yours is off the road.
Provide peace of mind. Knowing you have the right protection means you can concentrate on running your business or enjoying your van instead of worrying about every scratch or claim.

Types of Van Insurance

There are several levels of cover available. Choosing the right one depends on how you use your van and how much protection you need.

Third‑Party Only (TPO)
This covers damage to other people’s vehicles and property and compensates third parties if you injure them. It does not cover damage to your own van. TPO is the minimum legal requirement but is rarely recommended unless the van has a very low value.

Third‑Party, Fire and Theft (TPF&T)
In addition to third‑party cover, TPF&T protects your van if it is stolen or damaged by fire. It offers slightly more peace of mind than TPO but still doesn’t cover accidental damage to your own vehicle.

Comprehensive
The most popular choice, comprehensive insurance covers you for third‑party liabilities, fire, theft and damage to your own van. It also usually includes windshield replacement and sometimes personal injury cover for the driver. It’s often good value because it reduces the financial hit if your van is damaged in an accident, regardless of who is at fault.

Optional Covers for Business Use

Many trades and business users need additional protection. These can be added to your policy for a fee:

Goods in transit cover: protects tools, stock or equipment you carry against loss or damage.
Employers’ liability: required if you employ anyone; covers claims if an employee is injured while working in or around your van.
Public liability: covers claims from third parties for injury or property damage not directly related to driving (e.g., when loading or unloading).
Trailer cover: insures any trailer you tow.
Foreign use: extends your policy for driving outside the UK, usually within the EU.

Factors That Affect Your Premium

Insurance premiums are calculated based on the risk an insurer believes they are taking on. Some of the biggest factors include:

Driver age and experience: younger and newly qualified drivers typically pay higher premiums due to their ‘inexperience’.
Driving history: past claims and motoring convictions can increase the cost.
Vehicle type and value: larger, higher‑value vans cost more to insure. Modifications or performance upgrades can also raise premiums.
Business type and usage: couriers who cover many miles or carry high‑value goods pay more than occasional users.
Mileage: the more you drive, the greater the risk of accidents; high annual mileage can push up the price.
Storage and security: keeping your van in a locked garage, adding an alarm or immobiliser, and fitting a tracker may lower costs.
No‑claims discount: a proven record of claim‑free driving is rewarded with a percentage discount on your premium.

Optional Add‑ons

You can tailor your cover further with extras depending on your personal / business requirements:

Breakdown assistance: offers roadside repair and towing if your van breaks down.
Legal expenses cover: pays legal costs if you need to recover uninsured losses following an accident.
Tool cover: protects valuable tools and equipment left in your van overnight (policy limits apply).
Courtesy van: provides a temporary replacement van while yours is being repaired after a claim.

Typical Van Insurance Costs

Premiums vary widely depending on your circumstances. The table below provides illustrative annual ranges based on van size and usage for experienced drivers with a clean licence:

Van type	Example annual premium range*
Small van (e.g., Caddy, Berlingo)	£850 – £1,250
Medium van (e.g., Transit Custom)	£1,100 – £1,650
Large van / heavy use	£1,350 – £2,750+

*These figures are indicative only and assume fully comprehensive cover. Your premium may differ based on driver age, location, vehicle value, mileage and other factors.

Not sure what insurance you need?

If you’re unsure what level of cover you need, or simply want a second opinion on your options, feel free to get in touch with our team. We’ll help point you in the right direction and connect you with a policy that fits how you actually use your van.

SAVE £££’s on your van insurance