A removable roof box or bike rack is commonly treated as an accessory rather than a permanent vehicle modification, although policy definitions differ. Cover for the accessory and for items carried on it can also be subject to separate limits.

How insurers commonly treat this

• Permanent alterations to the roof or mounting system are different from removable carriers.
• Personal-belongings limits on a motor policy may be low.
• Bicycles can have separate cover under home or specialist cycle insurance.

What the quotation may ask for

Quotation forms use the information supplied to determine which insurers can offer cover and on what terms. Where the available answer does not accurately describe the circumstances, the insurer or comparison provider can clarify how that information is recorded.