Yes, you can insure your self-built campervan, but it requires specialized RV insurance rather than standard auto coverage. Most DIY conversions qualify for Class B motorhome insurance once they include a permanent kitchen and sleeping area, though you'll need to document your build and work with insurers who specifically cover self-built conversions. Roamly and select other carriers now offer comprehensive coverage for DIY builds, protecting both your base vehicle and conversion investments that can easily reach $20,000-$50,000.
Building your dream van was the fun part—now comes securing the right insurance to protect your mobile home investment. Don't worry, we've all been there. Let's figure this out together so you can focus on the fun stuff: hitting the road with peace of mind.
Standard auto insurance only covers your van as an empty cargo vehicle, not the thousands you invested in your conversion build. If you're in an accident, regular auto insurance might cover your van's base value but won't touch the $20,000+ in cabinets, lithium batteries, solar panels, and living amenities you've added.
The challenge? Many traditional insurers lack an understanding of DIY conversions. Some major insurance agents have never even been asked about insuring a self-built camper van and have no policies to cover them. They're comfortable with factory-built RVs from Winnebago or Airstream that meet RVIA manufacturing standards, but a self-built conversion? That's uncharted territory for most.
Here's what standard auto coverage typically excludes:
Real-world example: If someone breaks into your van and steals your laptop, clothes, and camping gear, standard RV insurance may not cover those personal belongings. You might need additional renters' or personal property coverage for complete protection.
The good news: more insurers are recognizing the DIY campervan market.
Roamly (Most Comprehensive for DIY Builds)
Based on recent consumer research, these major insurers typically decline self-built conversions:
Note: Policies vary by state, and individual agents may have different guidelines. Always confirm directly with insurers.
Every DIY build needs proper documentation to qualify for RV insurance coverage. Insurance companies want to verify your conversion meets motorhome standards and assess its value accurately.
Build Documentation:
Professional Appraisal (Recommended): A certified campervan appraisal provides a Fair Market Value report, increasing your coverage if your van is damaged or stolen. Professional appraisals typically cost $300-500 but can save thousands in proper coverage.
Van Specifications Needed:
Pro tip: Start documenting from day one of your build. It's much easier than trying to recreate everything after the fact.
Self-built campervan insurance typically costs $500-$1,600 annually, depending on your van's value, usage, and coverage level. This range reflects the unique nature of DIY builds and varies significantly based on factors like base vehicle type, conversion value, and how you use your van.
Conversion Value & Type
Usage Pattern
Geographic Location
Your Driving Record
DIY campervan insurance combines elements of auto and homeowners insurance to protect your mobile lifestyle. Understanding each coverage type helps you choose the right protection level without overpaying. For a comprehensive overview of all available options, explore our complete guide to types of RV insurance plans.
Liability Coverage (Required)
Collision Coverage
Comprehensive Coverage
Personal Effects/Contents Coverage
Emergency Expense Coverage
Vacation Liability (Optional)
If you live in your van more than 6 months per year, you'll need:
Getting insured starts with choosing the right company and having your documentation ready. Here's the proven process that works:
Start with companies known to cover DIY builds:
Get a Roamly quote - specialists in unique RV situations
Consider:
For builds over $30,000, a certified appraisal ensures proper coverage and can simplify claims processing.
Some insurance situations should make you pump the brakes and ask more questions.
Warning Signs:
Remember: Cheap insurance that won't cover your build isn't insurance at all—it's expensive paperwork.
The DIY campervan insurance landscape is rapidly evolving. With RV sales projected to reach $35.94 billion in 2025 and the RV insurance market expected to grow from $100 billion in 2023 to $147.75 billion by 2031, insurers are finally recognizing this market.
More options are becoming available, but specialized knowledge remains crucial for navigating this evolving landscape.
Don't let all that hard work and investment hit the road unprotected. Your self-built campervan deserves coverage that actually gets what you've created.
Take action today. Start Your DIY Campervan Quote - Get coverage built for van life in minutes
Roamly Insurance Group, LLC ("Roamly") is a licensed general agent for affiliated and non-affiliated insurance companies. Roamly is licensed as an agency in all states in which products are offered. Availability and qualification for coverage, terms, rates, and discounts may vary by jurisdiction. We do not in any way imply that the materials on the site or products are available in jurisdictions in which we are not licensed to do business or that we are soliciting business in any such jurisdiction. Coverage under your insurance policy is subject to the terms and conditions of that policy and is ultimately the decision of the buyer.
Policies provided by Roamly are underwritten by Spinnaker Insurance Company, Progressive Insurance Company, Safeco Insurance, Foremost Insurance Company, National General Insurance, Allstate Insurance Company, Mobilitas Insurance Company, Lyndon Southern Insurance Company and others.