What’s a cover note?

Cover notes are becoming less common but can still be issued by insurers. So, what exactly are they?

After you have purchased Car Insurance, it is possible that you could be issued with a document called a cover note. 

What’s a cover note?

A cover note is essentially a temporary insurance document. It is used by insurers to give you proof of cover until you receive your Certificate of Motor Insurance. This means that if you were stopped by the police, for example, you could use it to prove that you have paid for insurance.

Why is a cover note issued?

Cover notes tend to be used by insurers to cover any gap that may exist between you buying the policy and the completion of underwriting.

This gap is less common nowadays as many policies are applied for and sent online, but if you have not applied electronically, you may be issued with a cover note to tide you over. For this reason, new drivers still need to know what a cover note is for their driving theory test.

A cover note for driving may also be issued if the insurer wants to investigate some risks linked to the driver or the vehicle more closely before providing a full policy.

At Chris Knott, we may also give you an insurance cover note if you are temporarily adding another driver or vehicle to your policy.

What is included in a cover note?

A cover note for driving will state the following:

• The drivers covered by the policy
• The make and model of your vehicle
• Your excess
• Policy numbers
• Any special conditions
• The expiry date (usually 30 days)

The cover note will also state your level of Car Insurance cover. For instance, whether you have purchased a comprehensive policy, third party only, or third party, fire and theft.

Cover notes will give you the same cover as the terms outlined in your full policy. However, you should bear in mind that some limitations could be imposed if the insurers are examining risks more closely. Your insurer also has the right to cancel your cover immediately while your temporary insurance cover note is in place.

Can I use a cover note as proof of insurance?

Yes, you can.

A cover note for driving is issued so that you have proof of cover while you are waiting for your Certificate of Motor Insurance to arrive. 

What’s the difference between a cover note and a policy?

An insurance cover note is a temporary document, whereas a Car Insurance policy is a fully underwritten certificate of insurance.

Cover notes will provide the same cover as what will later be included in your policy. However, there could be some adjustments if your insurer carries out a more in-depth assessment of your risks. Nevertheless, they can still be used as proof that you have bought a Car Insurance policy.

How long can I drive with a cover note?

Cover notes usually have an expiry date of 30 days, but it is very likely that your insurer will issue you with an insurance certificate, policy document and booklet well before this time.

In the unusual circumstance that your cover note expires before you receive these documents, your insurer should issue you with another insurance cover note. This note should be active from the expiry date of your old cover note.

If you do not receive your Certificate of Motor Insurance or a new cover note, you should contact your insurer.

What should I do if there is a mistake on my cover note?

If you spot a mistake on your cover note, get in touch with your insurer or broker straight away. They will then be able to alter your cover note so that your details are all correct.

It is important to do this as soon as you spot the mistake so that your cover is valid. Changing it now also means that the error won’t be carried over into your final Car Insurance policy.

When will I receive my Certificate of Motor Insurance?

If you have been issued with a cover note for your car, your Certificate of Motor Insurance should arrive within 30 days. 

If you do not receive your certificate in this timeframe, get in touch with your insurer or broker so that they can issue you with a new insurance cover note.

Want to discuss Car Insurance with us?

If you have questions about Car Insurance or want us to help you get the right cover for your vehicle, you can get in touch with us today. Simply call us on 0800 917 2274.