Just because your car is parked doesn’t mean it’s safe. You might think your garage or driveway offers enough protection—but the reality is, your vehicle can still be damaged, stolen, or even cause damage to others while sitting still. ICBC’s Vehicle in Storage policy—also known as vehicle storage insurance—offers an affordable way to protect your vehicle when it’s not in use. 

Whether you’re putting away an RV for the winter, storing a second car during a work relocation, or waiting for a new driver in the household to pass their road test, this insurance policy could be one of the smartest moves you make.

For car owners looking to reduce costs without sacrificing protection, this type of auto insurance can be a smart addition to your coverage toolkit. Adding comprehensive coverage can further enhance that protection, especially for risks like fire, theft, or vandalism—and can reduce your overall premiums by avoiding more costly claims later on.

What Is a Storage Insurance Policy?

A storage policy provides auto insurance for cars that aren’t in use. Whether it’s parked in your garage, on your driveway, or at a storage facility, your vehicle could still be damaged—or even cause damage to someone else’s property. That’s where ICBC’s vehicle storage insurance comes in.

Coverage options include:

• Collision Coverage
• Comprehensive Coverage
• Specified Perils
• Third Party Liability Coverage
• Replacement Cost (for eligible newer vehicles)
• Limited Depreciation (for newer vehicles too)

Note: Storage policies are only available for vehicles not being driven or used as living accommodation (e.g., RVs being used for camping or full-time living). Basic policies may also include mandatory coverage requirements depending on your circumstances.

When Would You Use a Storage Policy?

There are plenty of reasons to take your vehicle off the road—and just as many reasons to keep it insured while it’s parked. Here are just a few examples:

1. Winter storage

Many drivers put away their motorcycles, convertibles, or RVs for the season. A storage policy protects them from weather-related damage, theft, or other mishaps while they’re idle. Many choose comprehensive coverage for peace of mind.

2. Long-term repairs or restoration

If your own vehicle is being fixed up or you’re restoring a vintage vehicle, storage insurance keeps it covered during the downtime. Comprehensive coverage is a popular choice and can help reduce unexpected repair costs.

3. Extended travel or work leave

Whether you’re heading out of town for work or taking an extended vacation, storing your car with the right insurance gives peace of mind. Park the car and protect it with a storage policy.

4. Student away at school

If your teenager leaves their car behind while attending university, there’s no reason to keep full coverage on it—just enough to keep it safe. Comprehensive coverage helps protect against unexpected risks.

5. You bought a car, but no one’s driving it yet

One family bought a used car from a friend because it was a great deal. It was meant for the wife, who was still working on getting her licence. Since the car wasn’t being used yet, they opted for a storage policy until she passed her road test.

6. Extra car, not currently needed

Sometimes families have a spare vehicle due to lifestyle changes—such as remote work or fewer drivers. Storage coverage ensures it’s protected while parked. Opting for comprehensive coverage gives added peace of mind.

7. Vehicle isn’t roadworthy or registered yet

If you’re waiting for inspection or paperwork, this type of coverage keeps the vehicle insured in the meantime.

8. Trying to reduce emissions or costs

Drivers who use public transit or bike part-time often park a secondary vehicle for months. Storage coverage provides low-cost peace of mind. Adding comprehensive coverage ensures more robust protection.

9. Vehicle is up for sale

Selling a car can take time. Rather than paying for full coverage, storage insurance protects it while you wait for the right buyer.

What Does Each Type of Storage Coverage Do?

Comprehensive coverage

Covers non-collision-related damage like theft, vandalism, fire, or falling objects. Example: a tree branch damages your car during a windstorm.

While optional, comprehensive coverage adds value by protecting against risks that may not be covered under basic storage policies—including falling or flying objects that might strike your car unexpectedly.

Specified Perils

A lower-cost option that covers named risks, including fire, theft, lightning, and flood—but does not cover vandalism.

Collision Coverage

If your parked car is hit by another vehicle or object, collision coverage can help pay for repairs.

Third Party Liability

Rare, but possible: if your stored car rolls, leaks fluid, or causes injury/damage while parked, this coverage protects you financially.

Replacement Cost / Limited Depreciation

Available for certain newer vehicles. This helps cover the cost of replacing your vehicle at its original value, not its depreciated worth.

What Does It Not Cover?

It’s important to know when a storage policy won’t protect you:

• If you drive the vehicle at all while it’s insured under a storage policy, you may void your coverage.
• If your RV or trailer is used as a place to live, this type of coverage is not allowed.
• Storage policies don’t include optional coverages like Roadside Assistance or Loss of Use.
• It does not replace your existing coverage if you plan to use your vehicle on the road again soon—you’ll need to reinstate that before driving.

Understanding Seasonal Risks: Why Even Parked Vehicles Face Threats Year-Round

When your stored vehicle is off the road, it may seem safe—but different seasons bring different risks, even for stationary cars. In fact, many natural disasters can cause damage to parked vehicles just as easily as moving ones. Here’s a breakdown of seasonal hazards that make a vehicle storage insurance policy a smart choice year-round:

Winter

• Heavy snow and ice can break tree branches and damage roofs, which may fall onto your vehicle.
• Rodents often seek shelter in parked vehicles, chewing wires and building nests under the hood.
• Freezing temperatures can damage components like water lines or fluid reservoirs, especially in RVs.
• Road salt in the air or tracked into garages can corrode exposed metal.

Spring

• Melting snow and spring rains increase the risk of flooding, even in residential garages.
• Windstorms are more frequent, heightening the chance of flying debris or falling trees.
• Pollen and tree sap can stick to and damage paint if left unchecked.

Summer

• Prolonged sun exposure can fade paint, damage plastic trims, and crack dashboards. Natural disasters like wildfires are also a seasonal risk.
• Interior temperatures can soar, potentially damaging electronics or battery systems.
• Wildfire smoke and ash, common in many parts of B.C., can clog air intakes and degrade finishes.

Fall

• Heavy rains and blocked drainage systems can lead to leaks and water damage.
• Falling leaves trap moisture and accelerate rust around windows and sunroofs.
• Rodents begin to seek warm nesting spaces, often choosing stored vehicles.

No matter the season, parked vehicles face unique risks that vehicle storage insurance can help mitigate.

Storage Tips to Keep Your Vehicle Safe (and Your Policy Valid)

1. Clean and wax the vehicle before storage to protect the paint.
2. Inflate tires to the correct pressure to avoid flat spots.
3. Top off fluids and add a fuel stabilizer if storing for more than a month.
4. Disconnect the battery or use a battery maintainer.
5. Use a breathable car cover, especially if stored outdoors.
6. Park on private property (garage, driveway) as required by ICBC.
7. Do not drive the vehicle while it is under storage coverage.

How Much Does Car Storage Insurance Cost?

One of the biggest advantages of ICBC storage insurance is its affordability. Since you’re not driving the vehicle, you’re not paying for high-risk coverage like Extended Third Party Liability coverage or Accident Benefits. Instead, you’re only covering risks like fire, theft, or weather damage.

Although ICBC doesn’t publish fixed rates for storage insurance, many drivers pay a fraction of their regular monthly premium. In fact, switching to this type of coverage could significantly lower your premiums—especially if your car would otherwise be sitting unused for weeks or months.

Costs can vary based on your:

• Vehicle type and value
• Coverage level selected (e.g., comprehensive vs. specified perils)
• Deductibles chosen
• Optional coverage add-ons

Your driving record does not significantly affect the cost of a parked car insurance policy. That’s because risk is assessed based on the vehicle’s exposure to non-driving hazards, not on-road behaviour. That said, keeping continuous coverage with storage insurance helps preserve your insurance history, which can benefit you in the long run.

If you’re curious about how much ICBC storage insurance might cost for your vehicle, your best option is to contact an Autoplan broker or your insurance company who can provide a quote tailored to your vehicle and storage plans. Brokers can also advise you on related insurance products that may be relevant to your situation in British Columbia.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

• Forgetting to switch coverage back before driving
• Assuming your home insurance will cover damage to a stored car (home insurance policies typically don’t cover stored vehicles,)
• Storing on public roads, which voids this coverage
• Letting rodents or moisture damage the vehicle
• Failing to ask if you qualify for additional discounts or savings on storage insurance

Does a Storage Policy Maintain Your Car Insurance History?

Yes. Keeping a storage insurance policy ensures your vehicle stays protected during downtime—and helps maintain continuous auto insurance coverage, which can be useful when switching back to full use.

Before you make any changes to your insurance coverage, it’s worth reviewing local laws and speaking with an Autoplan broker to ensure you’re compliant and protected.

FAQs About ICBC Storage Insurance

Do I need insurance if my car is parked in a private garage? Yes. Risks like fire, theft, and falling objects can still occur, even in a private garage. Car storage insurance ensures you’re covered.

Can I insure my car if it’s not registered? No. The vehicle must be registered before it can be insured by ICBC or any insurance company.

How quickly can I switch back to full coverage? You can switch back to full Autoplan coverage at any time by contacting your Autoplan broker. The process is simple and can often be done same-day.

Get Started with King Insurance

If you plan to store your vehicle for 30 days or more, speak to a King Insurance Autoplan broker. We’ll help you customize a vehicle storage insurance policy that protects your car while saving you money.

Just because your car isn’t going anywhere doesn’t mean your coverage should take a break. With affordable options for parked car insurance, King Insurance ensures your vehicle is protected—even when it’s not on the road.

As your insurance provider, ICBC delivers the core coverage—but at King Insurance, we make sure it’s the right policy for you. Our brokers work with ICBC, your insurance company, to tailor coverage that fits your specific needs and vehicle type.

If you have questions or need help understanding your options, talk to our experts. We’ll guide you through your choices so you feel confident in your storage policy—and in your insurance company.