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Car Fleet Rental Insurance

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Commercial Fleet Insurance for Rental Cars

What is fleet insurance for a car rental company?

This specialised, single policy option covers multiple cars operated under a self drive hire company’s fleet. It removes the need for separate policies for each car, typically resulting in lower costs. Depending on the level of coverage you choose, your fleet can be covered for things like accidents, vandalism, fire and theft. It also typically covers damage caused by third parties or those renting the vehicles. It’s a simple insurance solution for businesses managing a fleet of vehicles.

Types of rental car fleet insurance

Rental car, or self drive hire insurance, is usually available in three main coverage levels.

Comprehensive cover

Comprehensive fleet insurance covers damage to your vehicles, regardless of whose fault it is. Risks like theft, fire, vandalism or other types of third-party damage are typically covered. This level offers the most extensive coverage of all the options.

Third party, fire and theft

This level of coverage takes care of risks involving fire or theft to your vehicles. Damages caused to third parties are also included. However, accidental damage will not typically be covered. With third party, fire and theft, you should consider the potential risks involved in maintaining a fleet of vehicles without full coverage.

Third party only

Third-party only coverage protects you from any third-party damage you are liable for. This is the minimum legal requirement for driving on public roads in the UK. It may be a good option if you’re on a budget, but the risks are significantly higher as you won’t be covered for accidents you cause, theft, vandalism or fire-related damage.

How much does self drive hire insurance cost in the UK?

The cost of self drive insurance for a fleet depends on many factors that differ for each fleet. You’ll typically be charged a certain amount per year for each vehicle. The more vehicles you have and the higher their value, the higher your premium is likely to be. Other variables that can affect the cost are:

  • The mileage and usage of each vehicle
  • Your business’s claims history
  • Who can rent your cars
  • The security features of your vehicles
  • Where the fleet is kept when it is not rented
  • How you choose to pay your premium
  • The insurer and coverage you choose

What is included and excluded from commercial fleet insurance for rental cars?

That will depend on the level of cover you’ve chosen and any additional add-ons you’ve opted for. Each policy will be different as your risk profile is considered, so it’s important to read through your documents carefully to understand the limits of your coverage.

Coverage typically included with comprehensive fleet insurance for car rental company includes:

  • Personal accidents
  • Limited medical expenses
  • Personal belongings (excluding jewellery and cash)
  • Windscreen and glass repair
  • Legal costs
  • Roadside assistance
  • Authorised driver flexibility

Coverage typically excluded from comprehensive car fleet insurance includes

  • Wear and tear
  • Mechanical or electrical failure
  • Unapproved use
  • Unauthorised drivers
  • Negligence

How can I find the cheapest fleet insurance for my car rental business?

Compare multiple quotes

Comparing quotes increases your odds of finding competitive quotes.

Increase the security features on your fleet

This lowers your perceived risk to the insurers, possibly leading to discounts.

Remove unnecessary add-ons that can stack costs

Only pay for the cover you need.

Review and adjust your policy regularly

You could take advantage of new discounts or bundling opportunities that may not have been previously available.

Pay annually instead of monthly

Monthly payments usually cost more than annual payments to account for increased insurer administration costs and risks. Annual payments are typically cheaper.

Keep a clean claims history

An incident-free history lowers your risk profile, which could lead to a discounted rate when you renew your policy.

What information do I need to get a quote?

Information about your fleet

The number of vehicles, type, value, age, and annual mileage.

Drivers’ details

This includes names, ages, licence details, driving and claims histories.

Your business information

The nature of your business, vehicle usage, and compliance confirmation. Insurers will also want to know your insurance history.

Level of coverage needed

Your options are comprehensive, third party, fire and theft, or third party only. If you want extra cover, you can choose from any available add-ons. You’ll also need to decide what your preferred excess amount will be.

Self drive hire insurance FAQs

Does fleet insurance cover rental cars?

Yes. Car rental fleet insurance, also known as self-drive hire insurance, is an insurance product designed specifically for businesses that rent out a fleet of vehicles. It covers your fleet while it is rented out as well as when it is not on hire. Cover can be tailored to your particular fleet and can include cars, vans, campervans, minivans, and even motorcycles that are being rented out.

What insurance do you need for a car rental business?

As a rental business, you’ll want to ensure that you meet all legal requirements and protect your fleet, staff, and customers alike. Car rental fleet insurance is tailor-made for this type of business. It offers various levels of cover from comprehensive, third-party, fire and theft, to third party only. You’ll also have the option to take out additional cover where needed. Most insurance providers offer unlimited mileage and hires on these policies and often include EU cover too. Individual policies don’t typically offer the flexibility and cost benefits that rental fleet insurance can.

Is fleet insurance worth it?

Insuring multiple vehicles under one policy typically could mean you’ll get a bulk discount. Even though you’ll be charged per vehicle, the sum will likely be significantly less than if you took out individual policies for each car. Insurers may offer a no-claims bonus across the entire fleet. This can reduce costs even more if you keep a good claims record. So yes, fleet insurance can certainly be worth it.

Can I add or remove vehicles during my policy term?

Yes. This is a core feature of rental fleet policies. Changes to your policy can be made at any time and are referred to as mid-term adjustments (MTA). Your premium will be adjusted accordingly, and you’ll likely be charged an additional administration fee.

How quickly can I get cover?

If you have all your paperwork ready, you can typically get your cover on the same day that you apply. This can vary between providers, so if you need cover quickly, make sure to choose a fleet insurance car rental provider that offers same-day or instant coverage.

Can I get pay as you go self drive hire insurance?

Yes. Just be aware that your payment schedule can also affect your premium. Annual payments typically cost less than pay-as-you-go plans, so they could be more cost-effective for large fleets. It’s always good to get a wide range of quotes from multiple insurers to find the deal that best suits your needs.

Page last reviewed on 17th July 2025 

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