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Self-Employed Van Insurance: FAQs & Key Insights
Self-employed van insurance is cover designed for sole traders and independent professionals who rely on their van for work. It provides protection against common risks such as fire, theft, accidental damage and third-party claims. Unlike standard van policies, self-employed cover can often be tailored to reflect flexible working patterns, variable mileage and the tools or equipment you carry.
This policy type is often chosen by:
- Tradespeople such as plumbers, electricians and builders.
- Mobile professionals who travel between clients (for example cleaners or IT technicians).
- Freelancers and gig workers, including couriers and food delivery drivers.
It is important to note that just because someone is self-employed or works in a trade, this does not automatically mean they cannot have a policy that only covers social, domestic and pleasure use. The right cover depends on how the vehicle is used day to day.
| Cover Type | What it Includes | When to Use |
|---|---|---|
| Third Party Only | Covers damage to others and their property. | Legal minimum for any business use. |
| Third Party, Fire & Theft (TPFT) | Adds fire and theft protection. | Suitable for lower-value vans where theft is a concern. |
| Comprehensive | Covers your van as well as others, fire and theft. | Best for higher-value vans or where you cannot afford downtime. |
- Cover for business travel to and from jobs.
- Optional tools in transit cover.
- Fire, theft and accidental damage.
- Legal expenses to cover disputes or claims.
- Optional extras such as breakdown recovery or courtesy vans.
Premiums for self-employed van insurance are influenced by factors such as your age, driving history, mileage and the value of tools carried. You can reduce costs by:
- Using named-driver policies rather than any driver.
- Securing tools overnight in locked storage.
- Limiting your driving radius or annual mileage.
- Installing dash cams, alarms or tracking devices.
- Maintaining a strong no-claims history.
- Paying annually rather than monthly, if cashflow allows.
It is essentially a type of commercial cover but designed with the needs of sole traders in mind. Policies may offer more flexibility in mileage or working hours than standard fleet or business policies.
Many insurers allow you to add tools in transit cover as an optional extra. However, there may be limits on overnight cover if tools are left in the van.
Yes. Most policies can include social, domestic and pleasure use alongside business use. Always check the wording to ensure this is included.
If you carry out work while insured only for social, domestic and pleasure use, claims may be denied, and the policy may be cancelled.
All van insurance must comply with FCA regulations and meet the minimum requirements of the Road Traffic Act 1988. If you are self-employed, it is important to declare business use accurately if it applies.
Self-employed van insurance is designed for sole traders and freelancers who rely on their van to keep their business running. It protects against accidents, theft, liability and tool loss, while offering flexible options to reflect modern working patterns. Choosing the right cover type and add-ons, and taking steps to reduce risk, will help you stay protected and keep costs manageable.
