How to Get Insurance for a Self-Built Camper Van in Canada | Tips for DIY Camper Coverage

Insuring a self-built camper van in Canada can be more confusing than most builders expect. Because DIY conversions don’t come with manufacturer certifications, many insurers view them as higher risk — especially when it comes to electrical and water systems. The good news: with the right preparation and documentation, you can significantly improve your chances of getting covered and reduce the stress in doing so.

Below are practical, insurer-friendly tips every van builder should follow.

Know Why Some Insurers Hesitate With DIY Camper Vans

Not all insurance companies are willing to insure self-built or DIY camper conversions.
Why? Because they have no way to verify the quality of the build, especially when it comes to:

• Electrical wiring and fuse placement

• Battery systems and inverters

• Water plumbing, fittings, and pumps

• Ventilation and heating setups

Improper installation (for example, a loose electrical connection) increases the chance of fire or water damage — which makes insurers more cautious.

Tip: Don’t take it personally — understand their concerns and be prepared to address them with documentation.

Have Your Electrical System Installed or Inspected by a Pro

Your electrical system is the #1 component insurers care about.
To improve your chances of approval:

• Have a professional upfitter install your electrical system, or

• Get a post-build inspection from a certified electrician

A signed inspection report reassures insurers that the system is safe and built to code.

Talk to Your Broker Before You Start Your Build

One of the most overlooked steps: contacting your insurer before you begin your camper conversion.

Your broker can tell you:

• Whether they insure self-built campers

• What documents they’ll require

• Whether you’ll need electrical inspections

• What coverage levels make sense for your build

• Any photos or reports needed after the build is complete

This avoids stressful surprises and ensures you’re building toward requirements your insurer will accept.

Consider Insuring the Van Only (If Needed)

If the build is complex or expensive, and insurers are hesitant to cover the full value, you can:

Insure the van chassis only (excluding the conversion).

This can make coverage easier to obtain, while still protecting your main asset.
Some owners choose this option temporarily while they continue seeking full build coverage.

Use Vanlife Communities to Find Friendly Insurers

Facebook groups and online vanlife communities are incredibly useful for navigating insurance.

Search for:

• “Vanlife [Province Name]” groups

• Camper van builder groups

• Local DIY conversion communities

These groups often share which insurers or brokers in your province are most open to DIY conversions and can be a great source of local knowledge.

Document Your Entire Build (Insurers Love This)

A well-documented build shows professionalism, transparency, and lower risk.

Be sure to keep:

• Receipts for all components

• Photos of each stage — especially electrical, plumbing, insulation, and structure

• Notes on work completed

• Manufacturer details for key components (batteries, inverters, heaters, pumps, etc.)

This documentation makes your insurance application stronger and simplifies the appraisal process.

Tip: If you're using our Builder’s Valuation Guide & Planner, this step becomes even easier.

Get a Professional Camper Van Appraisal

Most insurers require a professional appraisal for self-built camper vans.

A proper appraisal provides:

• Verified market value

• A breakdown of components and upgrades

• Professional documentation insurers can rely on

• Support if you ever file a claim

👉 Book Your Camper Van Appraisal

Final Thoughts

Getting insurance for a DIY camper van in Canada takes a bit of planning, but it’s absolutely achievable. By documenting your build, working with professionals where needed, and getting an appraisal, you can dramatically improve your chances of securing reliable coverage.

If you’re ready for the next step, consider booking a Camper Van Appraisal to support your insurance application.