The van itself
Commercial auto covers liability for driving and, with physical damage coverage, the van. Contractors usually rate as service use, driving to job sites and parking there for the day.
Shelving, racks and installed equipment
Permanently installed shelving, ladder racks, inverters and partitions add value to the van. Some policies cover them only up to a sublimit unless they are declared as custom equipment. Keep the receipts and photos, and tell the agent the value of the upfit.
Tools and materials
Hand and power tools, testing gear and materials in the van are usually not covered by the auto policy. A contractor's equipment or tools floater, often an inland marine coverage, can cover them on the van, at the job site and in storage, subject to the terms.
Theft prevention
- Park in lit areas or a secure yard overnight
- Remove high-value tools when possible
- Use van vault locks and shelf locks
- Record serial numbers and photograph equipment
- Ask whether the policy requires a locked vehicle for theft claims
Employees driving the van
List every regular driver. If employees take vans home, tell the agent, because overnight garaging location and personal use affect the policy.
Job site risks
Work at a customer's property brings general liability questions that the auto policy does not answer, such as damage caused while working or injuries to visitors. Contractors usually carry general liability separately, and customers may ask for both certificates.
Frequently asked questions
Does my general liability cover tools stolen from my van?
Usually not. General liability covers injuries and damage to others. Tools are typically covered under an equipment or inland marine policy.