When adding a vehicle to an insurance policy or purchasing insurance for the first time, you must disclose any customization to your vehicle for underwriting purposes. It will also help you recoup some money for any possession that could potentially be stolen or damaged. Full disclosure upfront is always necessary to ensure you receive the maximum payout for any claims covered by your insurance policy. In addition keeping good records, taking pictures and keeping the insurance up to date on any changes will all help to make any future claim processing go more smoothly.

Keep Record

Having a receipt of any money paid for customizations is highly recommended by the insurance company. In the event of a claim the insurance company will want to know just how much you paid for the modification at hand, however; this does not mean you will get the full purchase price. Just keep good records and have a receipt available upon request.

Take Pictures

By having a picture of any customization, you will have something to accompany the receipt as proof of any customizations done to the vehicle. The picture will also act as a comparison for the damage sustained to the vehicle or covered article. When filing a claim for damage or theft of your property; most insurance companies will require a police report as well.

Report Changes

Not all modification to a vehicle needs to be reported and stipulations as to what you need to report, vary with every insurance company. As a general rule, notify the insurance company immediately, even if you will not be compensated in the event of a claim. This may seem inconvenient, however; it will only benefit you in the long run.

Adding modifications to a vehicle, not only enhances the appearance, but may also have a huge impact on your auto insurance premium. By fully disclosing any and all changes or customizations to your insurance company, you will help to ensure a timely payout in the event of a loss. Keeping good records, taking pictures and reporting any changes will all help to make the claims processing run more smoothly if the need arises.