Winterizing Your RV: Insurance Tips Before You Put It Into Storage 

Winter is a good time to review whether your recreational vehicle (RV) insurance still aligns with the way you use your RV. Many RV owners pay for full coverage year-round without adjusting their policy during months when the vehicle sits in a lot or garage. Others drop coverage entirely. Knowing what your policy does and does not cover during the offseason can prevent an expensive surprise when spring arrives.

What Happens to Your Coverage During Storage

Liability and collision coverage may not be necessary while your RV is parked, but comprehensive coverage remains valuable. Comprehensive coverage can financially protect against theft, fire, vandalism, falling objects and weather-related damage, all of which can occur while a vehicle is stationary. In North Carolina, windstorms and floods are not uncommon, and a fallen tree limb or rising water can cause significant damage to a stored RV.

Coverage Areas to Review Before You Store

Talk with your agent about each of these before your RV goes away for the season:

• Comprehensive coverage for noncollision damage while parked
• Total loss replacement or agreed value provisions, which affect how a claim is paid
• Personal belongings coverage for items stored inside the RV
• Roadside assistance coverage, which you may want to suspend or keep depending on whether you take occasional winter trips
• Lay-up coverage options for potentially saving on premiums during the offseason

Avoiding Coverage Gaps When You Start Driving Again

Suspending portions of your RV insurance while it’s in storage can reduce your premium, but reinstating coverage before your first drive of the season is critical. Lapses in coverage can affect your rates and leave you financially unprotected during transport to a repair shop or campground. Additionally, state laws and lender requirements regarding insurance may remain in effect even while your RV is in storage.

Contact Us

Contact Your Choice Insurance Center before you park your RV for the winter. Serving Lumberton, NC and beyond, our team can walk you through which coverage adjustments make sense for your situation.

This blog is intended for informational and educational use only. It is not exhaustive and should not be construed as legal advice. Please contact your insurance professional for further information.