I have recently moved to RH Specialist Insurance and have read the policy document in full.

I was quite surprised to read that cover under section 2 (Loss or damage to your vehicle) by theft is excluded if "it has been left with the windows, roof panel or the roof of a convertible open".

Seems like I will have to put the roof and side panels of my Chummy up each time I park it!

Has anyone else noticed this exclusion? Exceptions to Section 2 number 12.

Ron

What if the car doesn't have a roof but only a tonneau cover? Also some open cars may have a roof with open sides (no side screens ) eg an Ulster. I may need to read the RH exclusions and ask them.
Dave.

Location: Sheffield

Does this apply when the car is at home in the garage? And what if the window is closed but the car door open? Or if the car door is removed for repair?

I sometimes leave my Austin in the street with windows closed but doors not locked.

This is all nonsense - someone needs to talk to RH about this.

On early Austins there were no locks because it was illegal. My 1931 RN had no locking handles but I have fitted them to keep people out at rallies and to provide a bit of security when going on holidays.

Location: Near M1 Motorway Jtn 28

When RH changed hands recently we were assured that "NOTHING WILL CHANGE". That's two things to my knowledge if you take the airfield issue in to account.

Location: Oakley hants

I'm pretty sure that the roof requirement has always been there. I remember distinctly reading it some time ago. I'm not sure how they'd be able to prove that the roof wasn't up when you left it, and if it was down, a thief might do you the service of raising it to avoid being recognised on CCTV..!

It makes a lot more sense for vehicles where the roof might provide some security. Perhaps someone from the association could take this up with RH in a more metered approach to avoid any unnecessary bad feeling that would disadvantage everyone?

Speaking in my (new) role as Association Secretary, I am currently canvassing all Clubs as to whether any of their members are experiencing any problems with RH's service in any way. I will try and coordinate the replies and take them to RH (Hiscox) in an 'orderly' manner. Could I ask that if anyone does have any concerns regarding Customer service or change in contractual detail, you route those concerns back to me through your Club secretary.

Many thanks

Hugh

Location: Cambridge

I have noted that the "New" RH policy has a clause stating that "Commuting to a fixed place of work" is not covered. I know that many A7 owners have retired so this is of no interest but I find that a good "try out" for a repair before using the car for an event or for running in an engine, is to take it to work for a week.
I shall be talking to RH at renewal time and if the clause cannot be lifted, seeking an alternative policy.

Location: North Wiltshire

I had a problem with RH earlier this year - they did not send me a renewal notice. I didn't realize I wasn't insured until I received a letter threatening prosecution. I know I am responsible for insuring my car, but I had been with them 15 years. And who knows the exact date to renew their insurance? And how much.

Alan

Location: Rhos on Sea

I don't think you were alone in with that problem, Alan. That has already been raised with the insurers. It was a problem, I understand, during the handover from the RH business to Hiscox. I gather it shouldn't re-occur..

Hugh

Location: Cambridge

I didn't know that!

I have made enquiries of our contact at Hiscox/RH on this specific point and she has replied with the following comment:

"....provided reasonable measures have been taken ie roof and sides put up, if fitted, whilst the vehicle is left out of sight / unattended in an area where you would naturally consider this a prudent measure. For example, a sensible owner would always leave their vehicle safeguarded as far as possible. In the case of some vintage and classic cars they don't necessarily have side screens or hoods - but these vehicles generally wouldn't be left unattended for long periods in a busy city for example.

Vehicles are naturally left unattended at car shows for prolonged periods and protective measures wouldn't usually be deployed in an environment where like minded enthusiasts gather. Provided the owner can prove he's adopted common sense in the event of a claim it wouldn't be disputed.

The policy wording is clear/makes sense if you read and apply the final sentence of the section which from memory states 'OR reasonable precautions have been taken etc...'"

I hope that helps..

Hugh

Location: Cambridge