Vehicle Recycling & Scrap Metal insurance

20 years’ experience in motor trade insurance

When you go to an insurance broker that doesn’t understand the unique needs of your vehicle recycling and scrap metal business, you risk overpaying for your cover or getting cover that misses the minutiae. You need a broker that knows the environmental regulations, scrap licensing and site safety rules that you’re exposed to. And we do.

We’ll use our in-depth knowledge of the vehicle recycling, salvaging and dismantling industries, to advise you on the cover you need to protect your business. And then we’ll go out and get it for you.

Our specialist team can also advise you on risk management with a view to reducing your claims and – eventually – your premiums. Because, after two decades, we know what to look out for in your sector. But also because we take the time to talk to you, get to know your business, and delve into exactly what you need.

Who do we work with?

  Our clients include a wide range of scrap dealers and breakers’ yards from one-man bands right through to large metal recycling units with several commercial vehicles. The only must-have for getting scrap metal insurance is to ensure you hold a valid scrap metal dealer licence.  

What is vehicle recycling and scrap metal insurance and who needs it?

If you run any type of vehicle recycling, salvage, or scrap metal business then you’ll know it comes with its fair share of risks and challenges. From site or machinery accidents and theft to various environmental and legal regulations, there’s plenty to plan for. 

Vehicle recycling and scrap metal insurance is there to protect you against the unfortunate events and financial losses that could affect your ability to trade. It can be a valuable safety net. By taking the time to assess your risks, understand your insurance options and seek professional advice, you can ensure that your vehicle recycling or scrap metal business is prepared for whatever comes its way.

Most motor trade businesses need things like road risk and stock cover, but the nature of your business means it might benefit from a policy that’s more specialised. For example, a bespoke insurance policy could include coverage for environmental damage caused during the vehicle recycling process, protecting your business against potential clean-up costs and liabilities. 

Insurance is an investment in the future of your business. 

Fully comprehensive policies can include

Motor trade road risks (with additional premises and liability cover available for Vehicle Recyclers Association members)

Full fleet insurance, which typically covers vehicles at 3.5 tonnes, but we can arrange cover for 7.5 tonne vehicles or scrap lorries. We’ll also cover forklifts, cage trucks and double cab tippers, as well as vehicle transporters and trailers. 

Combined liability insurance to protect you in case of third-party bodily injury or property damage claims caused by your operations. For example, if a visitor to your site suffers an injury, general liability insurance can help cover their medical expenses and legal costs.

Employer's liability insurance to cover you against claims made by employees who suffer work-related injuries, accidents, or illnesses. (This is usually compulsory if you have employees.)

Property insurance with cover for plant items left out in the open and cover against damage to physical assets such as storage facilities, shredders, crushers and other equipment used in the recycling or scrapping process.

Stock cover, which can include non-ferrous metals and also stock in transit.

Business interruptioncover, so that if an unforeseen incident forces you to temporarily suspend operations, you’re compensated for lost income and can get help with ongoing expenses.

Environmental liability insurance, which covers clean-up costs and damages caused by pollution or contamination to third-party properties, including soil and water sources. This is particularly useful in an industry like yours, where environmental regulations are stringent and non-compliance incurs penalties. 

Engineering inspection insurance is also worth considering as part of your risk management. It can help keep any machinery and equipment on your premises safe and in full working order. It also includes cover for repairs and replacement costs. 

Greasing the wheels of the claims process

Unfortunate and unplanned things don’t always stick to office hours, so we make sure we’re available beyond the 9 to 5. If something happens, you want the peace of mind that comes from knowing you can pick up a phone and get help fast. So, we give you a number you can call as soon as you need us. 

To keep the process as efficient and stress-free as possible, you’ll also have a nominated claims manager  who will be on hand throughout - from initial claim and negotiations right through to the pay-out. And, just like our broking team, there are motor trade specialists on our claims team too.