Motorists planning summer getaways are being urged to inform their insurance providers about temporary modifications such as roof boxes, bike racks, and towbars, as failure to do so could invalidate their policy entirely. According to a recent survey by Quotezone.co.uk, 65% of drivers were unaware that adding a sunroof counts as a modification that must be declared.
Greg Wilson, CEO and car insurance expert at Quotezone.co.uk, said: 'As the weather improves and motorists head off for summer trips, many make seasonal modifications, like adding a roof box or towbar, but failing to inform the insurer of these changes could invalidate the insurance and leave the driver unprotected.'
Why Seasonal Attachments Are Considered Modifications
Seasonal attachments are classified as modifications because they can alter a vehicle's behaviour on the road. Insurers consider these adjustments to increase the risk of an accident, especially if they are poorly installed. Common additions such as roof racks, cargo boxes, and towbars shift the vehicle's weight balance, affecting handling and stability.
Other noticeable changes, like window tints, retrofitted sunroofs, and new towbars, must be reported to your provider because they often increase the total value of your car or alter its driving dynamics, reports Neil Shaw on Plymouth Live.
The Summer Modification Checklist
Wilson added: 'All the additions - towbars, roof boxes and racks, window tints, bicycle racks and adding a sunroof - can all be seen as increasing the risk of an accident or the likelihood of damage, which is why it's so important to notify the insurer.'
Below is a breakdown of common summer modifications and what drivers need to know.
Towbar
Attaching a towbar to your car can change your premium and must be reported immediately. Pulling an extra load like a caravan or trailer elevates the risk of an incident. Contact your insurer before installation to ensure your policy covers what you plan to tow.
Tinted Glass
Tinted windows will not automatically cancel your coverage as long as they remain legal and your provider is aware. British regulations enforce strict limits: at least 75% of light must pass through the front windscreen, and 70% through front side windows. No restrictions apply to rear passenger windows, but your insurer still needs to be informed.
Sunroof
Installing a sunroof after purchase counts as a vehicle modification. It can affect the car's market value, future repair costs, and structural integrity. Aftermarket glass panels are also prone to water leaks. Despite its popularity, many drivers overlook this change.
Roof Rack or Cargo Box
Roof racks provide additional storage for long journeys but are often viewed as modifications that could void coverage if undeclared. These frames are not standard and can alter weight distribution, impacting handling. Poorly attached or overloaded racks also pose hazards to other road users.
Bike Carrier
Clipping on a cycle carrier for a holiday requires an update to your insurer. Carriers are considered alterations that increase the likelihood of bodywork damage, particularly if incorrectly fitted.
Consequences of Non-Disclosure
The Quotezone survey highlighted that many motorists underestimate the risks of not declaring modifications. While some may assume certain additions are covered as standard, Wilson warns: 'There's a full list of modifications that insurers need to be aware of. Our car insurance quote form details them all with an explanation on modifications - it's so important for drivers to check the list thoroughly, as some items are quite unusual and many drivers may assume they are covered as standard.'
Failing to declare any of these changes could result in a claim being denied, leaving the driver personally liable for damages. The survey underscores the importance of reviewing policy terms before heading off on summer trips.
