Do you need RV insurance while your RV is in storage?

Unlike most stored vehicles, an RV has plumbing, holding tanks, and a water heater that can be damaged when temperatures drop. Winterizing helps, but water that finds its way into the RV — through a storm-damaged roof or an incident at your storage facility — can still lead to costly interior damage.

Heavy snow, ice accumulation, hail, and falling branches can crack seals, tear membranes, or cause slow leaks that damage your RV's roof and interior.

Storage bays, nooks, and soft materials in an RV can make it an inviting winter shelter for rodents, birds, and other pests. They can chew through wiring, insulation, hoses, and upholstery.

RVs in storage are common targets for theft — especially travel trailers, which can be easier to steal than motorhomes. Even a secured storage facility can be targeted, and RV insurance may cover your RV if it's stolen while in storage.

If you're considering canceling your RV insurance to save money while your RV is in storage, check with your insurer about other options first. Depending on your RV and policy, you may be able to adjust your coverages, limits, or deductibles while you're not using it. Before making changes, ask whether reducing or canceling coverage could affect your protection, discounts, or benefits.

If you finance your motorhome or travel trailer, lenders typically require you to have RV comprehensive and collision coverages on your policy at all times. Canceling your RV insurance policy before paying off your loan may violate the terms of your financing agreement.

Comprehensive coverage can protect your RV against damage from events outside of your control, including fire, theft, vandalism, hail, wind, and lightning. This coverage may apply whether your RV is on the road or in storage.

Progressive's Roof Protection Plus® may pay to repair or replace the damaged roof of your motorhome or travel trailer, even if the damage is the result of normal wear and tear. Note that your RV must be less than six years old to be eligible, and a $250 deductible applies.

If you leave items in your RV during storage, RV personal property coverage may protect against theft of or damage to belongings stored inside your RV, such as electronics, clothing, and camping gear.

Progressive's Pest Damage Protection℠ can pay to repair damage caused by non-domesticated animals, such as rodents or birds, while your motorhome or trailer is in storage. Note that your RV must be less than six years old to be eligible, and a $250 deductible applies.