Does insurance cover classic car restoration?

Yes, if you have classic car insurance, you can typically add an optional coverage for the duration of your restoration project. The additional coverage is designed specifically for insuring a project car that's being actively restored, and it's not typically available via standard auto insurance.

How do I insure my restoration vehicle or project car?

To insure your restoration vehicle or project car, you need to get a classic car insurance policy and add the optional restoration coverage. Standard auto insurance policies don't typically allow for restoration coverage. Classic car insurers that offer restoration coverage typically require proof that you're actively restoring the car. Acceptable proof of your active classic car restoration project might include:

Photos and videos

Receipts for purchases related to the restoration project

Detailed explanations about the work done so far

Plans and anticipated timetables for completing the work

Progressive Classic Car by Hagerty calls restoration coverage "Vehicle Under Construction" coverage, or VUC. Note that it's designed to be temporary — once your car is fully restored, you'll remove the coverage from your policy.

Can I increase the limit of my classic car restoration insurance?

Yes, an increasing limit is the main feature of restoration coverage since your vehicle should increase in value as you progress through your restoration project. When you add on VUC coverage with Hagerty, your coverage limit will automatically increase by 10% every three months, up to $25,000.*Read the associated disclosure for this claim.

This takes the guesswork out of accounting for the increase in your classic car's value as you restore it.

Insurers may have different automatic limit increases, or they may require you to provide periodic updates and documentation. Check your policy's terms and conditions for your restoration coverage details.

Insuring a frame-off restoration vs. frame-up restoration

The type of restoration you're undergoing, whether it's a frame-off restoration or frame-up restoration, typically doesn't have an effect on the insurability of your project. An important factor in getting coverage for a restoration project is showing tangible progress over time. This progress displays to the insurer your responsibility and that the vehicle is truly a collector car as opposed to a higher-risk vehicle in poor condition.

Are my unique parts and tools covered during the restoration?

Through Hagerty, Vehicle Under Construction coverage increases your current tool coverage by $750 with a $25 deductible, or you can purchase optional coverages for automobilia and all spare parts, even those not originally intended for your vehicle.

Coverage options and limits vary by insurer, so check with yours to understand your options before purchasing.