How to properly insure my AS?

[tslanier]

I have just recently purchased and 87 34' Excella that we are upgrading. I just called Nationwide and had the trailer added to my policy to get it titled. However, the "book" value will be low compared to the true replacement value of my unit when we are through with the upgrades. How should I go about insuring it properly?

[S C Streamer]

I believe it's called " Agreed Value ".

[Ganglin]

It's called "stated amount" when dealing with an auto policy. You may have to negotiate with the agent/company over the value. Some companies will require pictures, etc. to establish a value.

[CaddyGrn]

Hello,

We went through this recently with our 1963 Bambi. Called our regular carrier and told him what we have... My hubby has just completed (98%) restoration. I have a excel spreadsheet where we kept track of our expenses to help establish value. That information coupled with photos (they were willing to come over and take the photos, but we live in a very small town and it is all local folks...) and a sort of average of restored airstreams on ebay and such we came to an agreed value for coverage.

We probably have more $$ into our Bambi than the max insurance, but we aren't too far off. I went for a very low deductible and the yearly cost was very reasonable. Hopefully I will never have to "test" the insurance waters with it!

There are some specialized carriers "out there" that deal only in vintage type vehicles (you can find them at hot rod shows, etc.) and they are used to establishing value. We have had classic cars in the past and coverage was easy ~ however, we were fortunate and never had a claim so I couldn't tell you how good they are they were willing to take premium payments cheerfully!

At any rate, I would talk to your insurance folks, take them pics and give them a $$ amount you feel would cover your expenses and see what they say! If you aren't happy, go shopping!

Mrs. NorCal Bambi (traveling in S Tardis)

[AZstreamin]

Call multiple insurance companies. Even for a new AS I found there are numerous types of insurance. Progressive offers guaranteed replacement insurance which is available for a new AS. It is unlike an auto policy its coverage gives you a brand new AS in the event of a total loss for first 5 years of the policy. After that time, it becomes purchase price for the max value. State Farm, Farmers etc treat the policy the same as a vehicle where a blue book value is only used + any agreed upon extra values. Many tow vehicle policies cover the trailer being towed but this does not offer near the protection a specific written policy will. The most important is DOCUMENTATION. Keep records of every little dime you spend on "improvement" It will be your only evidence to support a claim to back the agreed upon value. Do your homework.
Good Luck Congratulations and Safe travels
AZstreamin