Car insurance and no claims whilst away from the UK for three years?

Emanef

Hi all

We have been away from the UK in the UAE for three years but have now returned to the UK.

Prior to leaving I had full no claims bonus, but now we are back and need to get a car I am looking at insurance and having to put zero no claims.

We had a lease car with Hertz for the three years abroad which included insurance, but never had to make a claim, etc.

Does anyone know of any insurance companies that would accept no claims during a period abroad (UAE)?

I'm looking at £515 minimum for a 1.4 Astra if I do a comparison based on zero no claims!

:eek:

Thanks

Herzlos

Most insurers will only let you carry forward NCD for up to 2 years. You could try a broker and see what they say, but it's unlikely.

I doubt they'd even consider a foreign hire car, even if you had a certificate from Hertz about the NCD.

citykid5

Possibly consider a classic car, they don't take ncb into account, just mileage and value. Maybe some restrictions regarding commuting though if you need it for work

khcomp

Speak to an insurer such as Swinton 'face to face' - some insurers will take previous no claims into consideration, but there's no way of knowing unless you ask...

Emanef

Thanks.

I just remembered that my sister added to me to her insurance as a second driver so I could use her car when I visited the UK. She reckons I was on there from July 2013 to September 2015 (she took me off as I wasn't really using it and she had a friend from Oz visiting and wanted her to use it). She uses Elephant so could get proof.

Would that make any difference to no claims, being name on a policy?

I'll call Swinton when I get the chance, thanks.

Herzlos

Some accept named drivers, but usually only within that group (so you'd be stuck with Elephant/Admiral/Sheilas Wheels)

Emanef

Ah, ok, Sheila's wheels came up as one of the best quotes.

I guess if I can get them to accept them this year that'll carry on to anyone next year? As in if we pay more to go with them because they accept me having been named and no claims?

I was with Admiral before we left the UK as well.

knightstyle

First go back to your old UK insurer, they will still have you on their files and may do a good deal. Second go to your sisters insurance and try them.
Direct Line took me back with full NCD after 4 years away.

Car_54

Herzlos wrote: »

Some accept named drivers, but usually only within that group (so you'd be stuck with Elephant/Admiral/Sheilas Wheels)

Sheila's Wheels is part of eSure, not the Admiral group.

Emanef

Thanks guys, very much appreciated. I guess I can't really do this until we actually settle on a car (I had seen one but still not sure) - we'll need insurance regardless so once we know the details I can start the contacting. Fingers crossed....!