One of the Conditions from the Motor Policy Document is: “The insured shall take all reasonable steps to safeguard the vehicle insured from loss or damage and maintain it in efficient condition.” Further, “The company shall have at all times free and full access to examine the vehicle insured or any part thereof or any driver or employee of the insured…” This means:

1. If the insurer were to decide to examine the vehicle insured, it is an obligation on the part of the insured to present the vehicle.
2. The insurer has free and full access to examine a part of the vehicle. Thus, it can examine the engine of the vehicle.
3. The insurer can inspect the driver / any employee driving the vehicle.

What is examined with free and full access at all times?

1. Whether the insured is taking all reasonable steps to safeguard the vehicle from loss or damage.
2. Whether the insured is maintaining the vehicle in an efficient condition.

The policy document does not define phrases like – reasonable steps, safeguarding the vehicle and efficient condition. What happens if the insured refuses to give free and full access?

The insurer can cancel the policy ab initio (from the beginning).

Premium paid by the insured will be forfeited.

If there is any claim, it will not be paid on the grounds of misrepresentation, fraud, non-closure of material facts or non-cooperation of the insured.

Be aware these policy terms are written in your motor insurance policy.

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