Insurance & Cover

Your peace of mind is our priority. Here's everything you need to know about insurance when hiring through GoNC500.

What's Covered?

Every vehicle listed on GoNC500 must have comprehensive insurance in place before it can be listed. Insurance details are displayed on each vehicle's listing page, and full documentation is provided at check-in. We work with owners to ensure you're properly covered throughout your trip.

โœ… Typically Covered

Third-party liability, fire and theft, accidental damage to the vehicle, windscreen damage, personal belongings (up to a limit), roadside breakdown assistance, and recovery. Specific cover varies by vehicle โ€” check the listing for details.

โŒ Typically Not Covered

Driving under the influence, unlicensed drivers, use on non-public roads or off-road, racing/rallying, deliberate damage, interior damage from smoking, awning damage in high winds (if not properly secured), and wear and tear.

Insurance Excess

Each vehicle has a stated insurance excess amount (typically ยฃ250-ยฃ1,000). The excess is the maximum amount you would be liable for in the event of a claim. This is separate from the security deposit. The exact excess for each vehicle is clearly displayed on its listing page.

Some owners offer an optional excess reduction policy for an additional fee โ€” this will be shown when booking.

Security Deposit

A security deposit (typically ยฃ250-ยฃ500) is taken at the time of booking. This is held as security against damage, excessive cleaning, late return, or fuel not replaced. The deposit is returned within 7 working days of the vehicle being returned, provided no issues are identified during the check-out inspection.

If any deductions are made from the security deposit, you will receive a detailed breakdown of the charges with supporting evidence (photos from check-out).

Breakdown Cover

All vehicles on GoNC500 must have breakdown cover in place. The specific provider varies by vehicle. In the event of a breakdown, contact the breakdown provider first (details in the vehicle documentation provided at check-in), then inform the vehicle owner.

โš ๏ธ Important: Mobile phone signal is patchy to non-existent in many parts of the NC500, especially on the west and north coasts. If you break down in a remote area without signal, you may need to drive or walk to the nearest settlement to make a call. Consider carrying a satellite emergency beacon for peace of mind.

The Check-In/Check-Out Process

Our digital check-in and check-out system protects both guests and owners. At collection and return, both parties complete a detailed form covering:

Recorded at Check-In:

Odometer/mileage reading, fuel level, detailed condition notes, pre-existing damage with photos, inventory checklist, emergency contacts, digital signatures from guest and owner.

Recorded at Check-Out:

Return mileage, fuel level comparison, condition inspection, new damage assessment with photos, additional charges (if any), inventory check, digital signatures.

This documentation is essential in the event of any dispute. We strongly recommend both parties take timestamped photos at both check-in and check-out.

Making a Claim

In the event of an accident or damage during your hire:

1
Ensure safety first โ€” check for injuries and call emergency services if needed (999).
2
Document everything โ€” take photos, exchange details with any other parties, note time and location.
3
Contact the vehicle owner immediately โ€” their number is in your booking confirmation.
4
Report to insurers within 24 hours using the policy details provided at check-in.
5
Do not authorise repairs without the owner's consent unless for essential safety.

Driver Requirements

Minimum age: Typically 25 years (some vehicles 21+). Check the vehicle listing.

Licence: Full, clean UK or EU/EEA driving licence held for minimum 2 years. Some larger vehicles may require a C1 category โ€” this will be clearly stated.

Penalty points: Maximum 6 points (3 for drivers under 25). No driving bans in the last 5 years.

Named drivers: All drivers must be declared and approved by the owner before the trip. Additional driver charges may apply.

Questions?

Insurance details are specific to each vehicle and are displayed on the listing page. If you have questions about the cover for a specific vehicle, contact the owner through the booking system or email us at info@gonc500.com.