Can You Get a Motor Trade Policy with Criminal Convictions?

​Having a criminal conviction can make insurance more complicated. Nonetheless, yesterday's mistakes don't have to keep you from tomorrow's business success in the motor trade.

Many traders with convictions still secure cover and run successful businesses. The key is understanding your options, being honest about your history, and working with a specialist broker who can help you find the right motor trade policy insurance for your circumstances.

What a Motor Trade Policy Covers?

A trade policy motor insurance protects anyone working in the motor trade who uses their own trade vehicles for business purposes, such as car dealers, mechanics, valeters or recovery operators.

It can cover multiple vehicles, but only those owned by the policyholder and used for motor trade purposes, including vehicles held for sale as stock. Having the correct policy in place helps ensure you are properly insured when using trade-owned vehicles, and protects your company's finances and reputation if an accident or loss occurs.

Can You Get Motor Trade Insurance with Convictions?

Yes. Having convictions does not automatically stop you from getting a motor trade insurance policy in the UK. Many insurers are willing to consider applicants with previous offences, depending on the nature of the conviction and how long ago it took place.

Insurers typically assess:

• The type and seriousness of the conviction
• Whether it is “spent” under the Rehabilitation of Offenders Act 1974
• How recently it occurred and whether there have been any further issues
• The nature of your motor trade business and your claims history

If your conviction is unspent, you must declare it when asked. Failing to disclose relevant information can invalidate your policy or lead to a claim being refused.

How Convictions Affect Premiums and Cover?

Convictions usually mean higher premiums, as insurers view them as indicators of greater risk. More serious or recent offences, such as drink-driving or fraud, can make policies harder to obtain. Some standard insurers may refuse to give you cover, but if this happens to you, there are still options.

Specialist brokers often work with underwriters who understand non-standard profiles and can still provide suitable terms.

Providing clear information about your trading activity, security measures, and any steps you’ve taken to demonstrate responsibility can help reduce costs and improve your chances of acceptance.

Tips for Securing Motor Trade Insurance with Convictions

• Be honest about all unspent convictions. Non-disclosure can void your policy.
• Use a specialist broker familiar with higher-risk motor trade clients.
• Check whether a conviction is classed as ‘spent’ so you understand what you are required to declare when asked.
• Show stability and responsibility through clean driving records and secure premises.
• Compare multiple quotes to find competitive, fair pricing.

Why Choose a Specialist Broker?

For anyone with past convictions, an experienced broker can make the process far easier. They understand which insurers are open to covering non-standard risks and can tailor a policy to fit your business.

Working with a broker ensures you stay compliant, avoid unnecessary costs, and get flexible protection rather than being turned away by general insurers.

Get Expert Help from Crowthorne

Having a prior conviction shouldn't have to prevent you from building a successful career in the motor trade.

At Crowthorne Insurance, we specialise in finding fair, competitive motor trade insurance policy UK options for traders from all backgrounds. As members of the British Insurance Brokers’ Association (BIBA), we offer trusted advice and access to specialist insurers who understand real-world circumstances. Take your next steps with confidence, contact Crowthorne today for confidential advice and a tailored quote to protect your motor trade business.

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