Can I Get GAP Insurance on a Used Car Bought Privately?

Yes, if you buy a used car privately, you may still be eligible for GAP Insurance. In most cases, this is offered as an Agreed Value GAP policy, which bases cover on the market value of the vehicle at the time you arrange the insurance, rather than an invoice price.

Find out all about Agreed Value GAP here.

How it works · When it applies · When it may not be available · Related links

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How it works

Agreed Value GAP (also known as Return to Value GAP Insurance) sets cover based on the market value of your car at policy start.
The 'agreed value' is normally determined by the Glass's Guide Retail Value at the time you buy the policy.
If the car is written off, the GAP payout tops up the motor insurer’s settlement back to that agreed value.
This ensures you don’t lose money if values rise or if your car depreciates further.

When it applies

Private sale purchases with no dealer invoice.
Can cover car auction purchases, eBay or Gumtree.
Cars owned for longer periods that no longer qualify for Return to Invoice GAP, Vehicle Replacement GAP, etc.
Older vehicles (within the GAP insurer’s age/mileage limits).

When it may not be available

Vehicles outside the insurer’s age or mileage criteria (e.g. over 8 years or 80,000 miles).
Cars without proof of value (valuation evidence is needed so it needs to be in Glass's Guide, for example).
Cars previously written off or heavily modified may be excluded.

Tip: If you buy a car privately, get a valuation at purchase. This will help if you ever need to make a claim.