Do car valeters and detailers need motor trade insurance?

By Road Runner

Man cleaning the window of a car with a cloth inside a garage or workshop setting.

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If you’re running a car valeting or detailing business in the UK – whether mobile, home-based, or operating from a dedicated site – insurance isn’t just a box to tick. It’s a vital part of protecting your business, your customers, and your reputation. But do you need motor trade insurance specifically?

Let’s break it down.

What is motor trade insurance?

Motor trade insurance is designed for professionals who work with vehicles they don’t own. It provides cover for driving, servicing, repairing, or handling customer vehicles. For valeters and detailers, this means protection while moving cars for cleaning, conducting test drives, or offering collection and delivery services.

Road Runner Insurance offers tailored motor trade policies that fit the unique needs of valeting and detailing businesses – whether full-time or part-time.

Here are the key reasons why motor trade insurance is essential for car valeters and detailers:

1. Legal compliance
If you drive customer vehicles – even just a few metres – you need road risk insurance. Without it, you’re not legally covered to operate on UK roads.

2. Customer vehicle protection
Accidents can and do happen. Scratches, chemical damage, or even theft while a vehicle is in your care could lead to costly claims. Motor trade insurance ensures you’re covered for these risks.

3. Public and employers’ liability
Whether someone slips on a wet floor or an employee gets injured, liability insurance protects you from legal and compensation costs.

4. Tools and equipment cover
Valeting often involves expensive tools and cleaning products. Insurance can cover theft, damage, or loss of these essentials.

Types of cover you may need

Road Runner Insurance provides flexible options, including:

Road Risks insurance – drive customer vehicles legally and safely
Public Liability insurance – protect against third-party injury or property damage
Employers’ Liability insurance – mandatory if you hire staff
Tools and equipment cover – safeguard your gear
Premises insurance – for those operating from a fixed location

You can mix and match these to suit your business model – whether mobile, site-based, or part-time.

Why Choose Road Runner Insurance?

With over 25 years of experience in the motor trade, Road Runner understands the specific risks faced by valeters and detailers. Our cover is tailored to your exact needs and will protect your business from day one.

Final thoughts

Motor trade insurance isn’t just for mechanics or car dealers. If you’re a car valeter or detailer handling customer vehicles, it’s a must-have. Protect your business, stay compliant, and give your customers peace of mind with the right cover.

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Get expert advice on motor traders insurance with Road Runner today.

If you’re unsure what you need, it’s always best to get a quote or speak to a specialist who understands the motor trade inside out. Need cover without premises? Explore your options with our motor trade insurance experts and find the right protection for your business.

You can get a quote here or call us on 03301 00 87 20.

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Road Runner is a trading name of Howden UK Brokers Limited, which is authorised and regulated by the Financial Conduct Authority No. 307663. Registered in England and Wales under company registration number 02831010. Registered Office: One Creechurch Place, London, EC3A 5AF. Calls may be monitored and recorded for quality assurance purposes.