Frequently Asked Questions

Business car insurance typically offers three main levels: Third Party Only (covers damage to other people's property), Third Party Fire & Theft (adds protection against fire and theft), and Comprehensive (covers damage to your own vehicle plus everything else). Additional options include tools cover, goods in transit, roadside assistance, and replacement vehicle coverage.

Tools coverage varies by insurer and policy. Some include basic tools cover (usually $1,000-$5,000), while others offer it as an optional extra with higher limits (up to $20,000+). For tradies and contractors, specialized tools coverage is essential and should be specifically discussed with your insurer.

This depends on your policy type and the goods being carried. Basic business policies may cover your own tools and equipment, but courier companies or businesses regularly transporting client goods typically need "goods in transit" coverage. This protects against damage or theft of goods you're transporting for business purposes.

Business policies can typically cover any employee driving with your permission, but you must ensure all drivers meet the insurer's requirements (valid license, age restrictions, etc.). Some policies require you to list all regular drivers, while others provide broader coverage for any authorized driver.

Most insurers offer 24/7 claims reporting via phone, online portals, or mobile apps. You'll need to report the incident as soon as possible, provide details of what happened, take photos if safe to do so, and gather contact information from other parties involved. For theft, you'll also need to report it to police and get a police report number.

Simple claims can be processed within 48-72 hours, while complex claims involving investigations or disputes may take several weeks. Most insurers aim to provide a decision within 10 business days for straightforward claims. For vehicle repairs, you can often get your car to an approved repairer immediately after reporting the claim.

At-fault claims typically affect your premium at renewal, potentially reducing your no-claims bonus or increasing your base premium. Not-at-fault claims (where the other party was clearly responsible) usually won't affect your premium. The impact varies by insurer and your overall claims history.

For comprehensive coverage, insurers typically pay the market value of your vehicle at the time of loss, minus your excess. Some policies offer "agreed value" where the payout amount is predetermined, or "replacement value" for newer vehicles. Tools and equipment are usually covered separately up to policy limits.

Costs vary widely based on your business type, vehicle value, coverage level, location, and driving history. Basic coverage might start from $40-60 per month for a single vehicle, while comprehensive coverage with high limits could be $100-200+ per month. Fleet discounts can reduce costs for multiple vehicles.

Key factors include: business type and risk level, vehicle make/model/age, coverage level and excess amount, driver experience and claims history, vehicle usage patterns, storage location, and security features. High-risk industries like courier services typically pay more than office-based businesses.

Yes, common discounts include: fleet discounts for multiple vehicles, no-claims bonuses for claim-free periods, security discounts for alarms/immobilizers, driver training course discounts, and multi-policy discounts if you have other business insurance with the same provider.

Higher excess amounts do reduce premiums, but consider your ability to pay the excess if you need to claim. For businesses with good cash flow and low claim frequency, a higher excess can provide significant savings. However, ensure you can afford the excess amount without affecting your business operations.

While comprehensive insurance isn't legally required, you must be able to pay for damage you cause to other people or property. The Accident Compensation Corporation (ACC) covers personal injury, but you're still liable for property damage. Most businesses carry at least third-party coverage to protect against these costs.

If you have an accident while using your vehicle for business purposes without proper coverage, your personal insurer may refuse to pay claims. You could be personally liable for all damages, including property damage, vehicle repairs, and legal costs. This could result in significant financial loss and potential bankruptcy.

Yes, you must inform your insurer of material changes to your business, including changes in business activities, vehicle usage, or risk profile. Failing to disclose changes could void your policy. Most insurers are flexible and can adjust your coverage to match your new requirements.

You must: stop and check for injuries, call emergency services if needed, exchange details with other parties, take photos if safe to do so, report to police if required (serious injury, disputes, or hit-and-run), and notify your insurer as soon as possible. Don't admit fault or make statements about who was responsible.