Do I Need to Inform MY Insurance Company About a Towbar?

Installing a towbar on your vehicle can open up a world of possibilities—from towing trailers and caravans to carrying bike racks for your next outdoor adventure. But before you hit the road with your new setup, you may be wondering: do I need to inform my insurance company about this modification? The answer is almost always yes, and here’s why.

Why You Should Inform Your Insurer

1. It's a Vehicle Modification

A towbar installation counts as a vehicle modification, even if it’s a minor one. Insurance companies need to know about any changes to your vehicle’s original specification. Failing to inform them could potentially invalidate your policy, leaving you unprotected in case of an accident.

2. Risk Assessment

Adding a towbar might slightly alter the risk profile of your vehicle. For instance, towing increases wear and tear, and it may change how your vehicle performs on the road. Insurance providers assess these factors to determine your premium. While some companies may not charge extra for a towbar, they still need to be aware of its presence.

3. Coverage Adjustments

If you don’t disclose the towbar, your insurer might refuse to cover damage to the towbar itself or any attached equipment, such as a trailer. They might also deny claims related to accidents where the towbar played a role. Informing them ensures all components are covered under your policy.

How to Notify Your Insurance Company

1. Check Your Policy Terms

Review your existing policy to see how modifications are handled. Some insurers specifically mention towbars as a notifiable change.

2. Contact Your Insurer

Reach out to your insurance provider to inform them about the towbar installation. Provide details such as the make and model of the towbar, who installed it (e.g., a professional garage), and its intended use (e.g., towing a caravan or carrying bikes).

3. Request Confirmation

Once you've informed your insurer, ask for written confirmation that your policy has been updated to include the towbar. Keep this documentation for your records.

What Happens if You Don’t Inform Them?

Failing to notify your insurance company about a towbar installation could have serious consequences:

Policy Invalidation: Your insurance might be voided for non-disclosure, leaving you without coverage.
Claim Rejections: Any claims related to the towbar or towing activities could be denied.
Higher Costs: In some cases, undisclosed modifications discovered after an accident could lead to financial penalties or higher premiums.

Will My Premium Increase?

Not always! Many insurers consider towbars a low-risk modification and may not increase your premium. However, this varies depending on your provider and how you plan to use the towbar. For example, towing a heavy trailer might result in higher costs compared to using the towbar solely for a bike rack.

Final Thoughts

Whenever you modify your vehicle—even with something as common as a towbar—it’s essential to inform your insurance company. Doing so ensures your policy remains valid and that you’re fully protected on the road. The process is usually straightforward and, in many cases, won’t even affect your premium. A quick call to your insurer can save you a lot of hassle and potential expenses in the long run.

Have questions about towbars and insurance please feel free to contact our sales team who can give you all the latest informationa nd advice on 01903 947771 or info@southerntowbars.co.uk