Written by Michael Foote, Insurance Expert
If you run your motor trade business from home, you’re not alone. Many part-time traders, mechanics, and valeters use their own driveway to store vehicles, either temporarily or as part of day-to-day operations. But does a typical motor trade insurance policy cover this setup?
This guide explains what insurers usually look for when assessing driveway storage and whether it’s possible to get insured from a residential address.
What insurers want to know
When applying for motor trade insurance with home-based storage, insurers will typically ask:
- Is the driveway private and secure?
- Do you own or rent the property?
- Is the driveway used solely for business vehicles?
- Are vehicles kept there overnight?
- Do customers visit the premises?
They’re not just asking for admin purposes, these questions help determine whether your setup fits their risk profile.
Is it legal to trade from a residential driveway?
Yes, in most areas it’s legal to run a small-scale trade business from home, provided:
- You’re not causing disruption or safety issues
- You’re not creating high levels of traffic or noise
- You’re not operating a full-scale garage or showroom
Some local councils may require planning permission if your activity grows beyond what’s expected in a residential area. But for most part-time or sole traders, this isn’t usually an issue.
Will all insurers cover this setup?
No, many motor trade insurers have strict criteria for home-based storage. Some flatly refuse to cover vehicles stored in open residential areas, while others may apply higher excesses or require extra security measures (like locked gates or CCTV).
If your driveway is not enclosed or easily visible from the street, you may struggle to get standard terms.
How to improve your chances
To increase your chances of getting cover:
- Install motion-activated lighting or CCTV
- Fit bollards or use lockable gates
- Keep trade vehicles clearly separated from personal vehicles
- Avoid storing high-value cars overnight
- Compare motor traders insurance quotes – given that a lot of insurance providers are only willing to insure businesses with commercial premises, you can maximise your chances of finding a quote by comparing online.
You should also ensure your documentation is clear, including any stock declarations, proof of trading, and business address.
What type of policy do I need?
If you trade from home, look for a policy that supports motor trade insurance for home premises. These policies are designed to accommodate residential storage, but still require you to meet security and trading activity standards.
Not all brokers offer this type of cover, so you may need to work with a specialist to find the right match for your setup.
