Anyone who has invested in a horsebox (whether that’s a towed trailer box or a motorised box) will have insurance. With horsebox thefts on the increase and the cost of replacing a box running into thousands of pounds, it makes sense to protect your asset financially.
But while your insurance covers you when you’re out on the road or at an event, how much protection do you have when you’re back at home? Making sure that your horsebox is covered while it’s parked up during the winter months is just as important as having that essential insurance during the summer.
Don’t let your insurance lapse
Once your horsebox is parked up for the winter, it can be tempting to let the insurance cover lapse. After all, it’s secured, it’s safe, and letting the cover run out would save you a few quid each month, wouldn’t it? You can always re-insure it come the spring.
However, it’s impossible to know exactly what might happen, even in the relatively safe environment of your yard, barn or stables. Thieves are just as likely to strike during the winter (if not more so, thanks to the darker nights). So don’t let your horsebox insurance lapse during the winter, even if it’s tempting to do so. By setting up a direct debit payment, you can be certain that your cover stays in place, even if you’re not using your horsebox for any length of time. A direct debit also lets you spread the cost of your insurance (although you will pay a little more for the privilege).
Comply with any insurance requirements
In the same way that keeping your car in a garage can reduce the cost of insurance, then complying with insurance specifications and requirements can ensure that your cover is both comprehensive and affordable. That means making sure that your horsebox is safely stored over winter, preferably in a lockable barn or other secured area. At the very least it’s important to put a lockable gate between your horsebox and any opportunist thieves who may pass your property.
Immobilisers and wheel locks are also a good way to protect your horsebox when you’re at home. If there is a high risk of theft (particularly for more remote locations), then installing a motion-sensitive CCTV system can also help to reduce the cost of your insurance and protect your possessions.
Stables and Livery Yard insurance
If you are running a commercial stable or livery yard then you will already have comprehensive insurance. However, it’s important to check that your stable and livery yard insurance also covers vehicles such as horseboxes. You may have to insure your vehicles separately, as they may not be covered under the terms of your stable insurance, even when they are parked on the property.
Talk to a professional
The intricacies of insurance can be complicated, especially when all you want is to protect your assets and your finances. So whether you’re a hobby rider or a professional, it pays to talk to a qualified and specialist broker, who can give you clear and impartial advice on your horsebox insurance. Their position within the industry will also give them access to special offers and deals on insurance. This could save you the time of searching through comparison sites that may not provide you with all the information you need, as well as securing an affordable insurance deal that suits your exact needs, whatever your budget.