Lancaster Insurance: Your Classic Car Cover

When it comes to safeguarding your beloved classic vehicle, finding the right insurance is paramount. Many owners of vintage and classic cars seek specialist providers who understand the unique needs of these cherished machines. Lancaster Insurance, established in 1984, is one such provider that has carved a niche in the motor insurance market, particularly for classic and vintage vehicles. This article delves into what Lancaster Insurance offers, focusing on their classic car insurance policies, how they define a classic, and how you can obtain a quote.

What Kind of Insurance Does Lancaster Offer?

Lancaster Insurance is renowned for its specialist motor insurance products. While their core strength lies in classic car insurance, they also extend their expertise to a broader range of niche motor-related products and general insurance. This means that if you insure your classic or vintage car with them, you can also arrange cover for your daily driver. A particularly attractive proposition is their promise to match your renewal quote from your current provider, subject to their terms and conditions. This demonstrates a commitment to offering competitive rates and retaining customers by valuing their loyalty.

Classic Car Insurance Options Available

Lancaster Insurance understands that a one-size-fits-all approach doesn't suit the diverse world of classic cars. Beyond a standard classic car policy, they offer an agreed value scheme. This is a crucial feature for classic car owners, as it allows you to agree on a specific value for your vehicle with the insurer. This valuation is typically based on the car's condition, rarity, and market value, providing greater peace of mind knowing that your car is insured for its true worth should the worst happen. They also offer a two-year agreed valuation, ensuring that your car's value is consistently recognised.

Lancaster is a committed supporter of classic car clubs. For members of these clubs, there's the potential to receive up to a 25% discount on their insurance premiums. It's important to note that the exact discount level can vary between insurers and is always subject to underwriting criteria. This highlights the importance of being part of a classic car community and the financial benefits that can accompany it.

Furthermore, Lancaster caters to the evolving needs of classic car enthusiasts by offering cover for modified classics. This is a significant advantage, as many standard policies struggle to accommodate the unique modifications that owners often undertake. They also provide multi-vehicle insurance, often at a discounted rate. This can encompass a variety of vehicles, not just classic cars, but also 4x4s, campervans, and even tractors, making it a versatile option for collectors with diverse automotive interests.

In addition to the standard benefits one would expect from car insurance, such as limited mileage options and salvage retention rights, Lancaster's specialist policies come with added advantages. Their appreciation for the intrinsic value of classic cars is evident in their comprehensive valuation process, offering a robust safety net for owners.

What Constitutes a Classic Car with Lancaster?

Defining what qualifies as a 'classic' can sometimes be a grey area. Lancaster Insurance, while not providing exhaustive, definitive criteria on their website, generally covers vehicles that are old enough to be considered vintage. However, they are also open to insuring younger examples that may not fit the traditional definition but are still considered desirable or have a significant following. For instance, a quote was obtained for a 2012 Mazda MX-5, demonstrating their flexibility. It's important to remember that this may not apply to all makes and models of a similar age.

A spokesman for Lancaster highlighted that when obtaining a quote, they consider the driver profile as much as the vehicle itself. Factors such as driving history, age, occupation, and location all play a role in the underwriting process. Therefore, they encourage potential customers to speak directly with Lancaster to discuss their specific requirements. This personalised approach ensures that the quote received is tailored to the individual and their circumstances, leading to more accurate and appropriate cover.

How to Obtain a Quote from Lancaster Insurance

Getting a quote from Lancaster Insurance is a straightforward process. The quickest method is often to call their dedicated call centre. Alternatively, you can complete an online form, and an agent will contact you for a callback as soon as they are available. Their website also provides options to get a quote directly online.

Lancaster Insurance emphasizes that to secure the best rates, speaking directly with their knowledgeable staff is recommended. These advisors are well-versed in the intricacies of classic car insurance and can guide you through the options. You can even use their 'call me' form, providing some details, and a representative will reach out at a time that suits you. Lancaster Insurance can be contacted on 01480 220196.

Understanding the Cost of Lancaster Insurance

As with any insurance policy, the final cost is influenced by a multitude of factors. For classic car insurance, the valuation of the vehicle, its age, and its condition are particularly significant. To provide an indication of costs, the following examples are based on a 45-year-old male marketing manager with a second vehicle. The car is garaged, covers 3,000 miles per year, and the driver resides in an SP2 postcode. He has no claims or convictions and is a member of a classic car club. The quotes provided are accurate as of July 30, 2019:

*Note: These figures are illustrative and subject to change based on individual circumstances and underwriting.

Making a Claim with Lancaster

Should you need to make a claim, the process is designed to be as smooth as possible. You should refer to the dedicated claims number provided on your policy documents. This claims line is available 24 hours a day, seven days a week, ensuring that assistance is always at hand when you need it most.

Can My Policy Be Amended?

Lancaster Insurance understands that life circumstances can change, and your insurance needs may evolve. They can accommodate various amendments to your policy, such as changing the vehicle covered, updating your address, or adding additional drivers. However, it's important to be aware that many of their policies are specialist and designed for specific risks. For instance, classic car policies often only cover a like-for-like vehicle, meaning another type of classic. If an amendment isn't possible on your existing policy, Lancaster will explore all other available options, which could include cancelling your current policy and replacing it with a new one that better suits your updated needs.

Frequently Asked Questions

Q1: Does Lancaster Insurance offer cover for everyday cars as well as classics?
Yes, Lancaster Insurance can arrange cover for your daily car alongside your classic or vintage vehicle.

Q2: Can I get a discount if I'm a member of a classic car club?
Yes, members of classic car clubs can receive up to 25% off their insurance premium, subject to underwriting criteria.

Q3: What if my classic car has modifications?
Lancaster Insurance offers cover for modified classics, catering to vehicles with unique customisations.

Q4: How do I get the best rate for my insurance?
Lancaster advises calling their dedicated call centre or speaking directly with their knowledgeable staff to get the very best rates.

Q5: What is an 'agreed value' policy?
An agreed value policy allows you to agree on a specific value for your classic car with the insurer, ensuring it's insured for its true worth.

In conclusion, Lancaster Insurance provides a comprehensive and specialist service for classic car owners. Their understanding of the market, flexible policy options, and commitment to customer service make them a strong contender for anyone looking to insure their cherished vehicle.