I was able to cover it by claiming it as an extension of my existing auto policy, paying for its own separate collision and comprehensive (I have USAA). Only costs a few extra dollars/mo. I had to register the trailer VIN as part of the transaction. I was able to bargain that it is more valuable personal property rather than a traditional RV/Motorhome. My renter’s policy covers any other camp gear I might have with it.
I added up all the mail-order stuff and rounded to $5,000 for cushion. Regardless of how much we adore our camper, you likely won’t be able to claim any more than what you paid for the trailer, kit, lights, battery, etc. Good luck trying to add value by claiming all the ancillary cost in consumable epoxy resin, brushes, sandpaper and all the “sweat equity” labor cost!
Be forewarned – Insurance companies have not caught up to the teardrop movement. I looked into Geico, Progressive, and even a site called RVInsurance. They all scratch their heads when you tell them CLC is the manufacturer. Not many traditional insurance companies will cover it because of the “homemade” aspect – they confuse it with a TinyHouse and probably imagine frayed wires and makeshift plumping squatting on land you don’t own*. If you claim it as anything similar to a traditional pop-up or travel trailer, expect to pay exorbitant rates – I was quoted as high as $40/mo – that are completely unnecessary for a teardrop.
*Personally I’m a fan of TH and modest living and know this isn’t true for most of that community, but that is the real perception out there…
