Finding legitimate impound insurance can be confusing. Many ordinary insurers refuse to cover vehicles that have been seized, and comparison sites rarely include them. Yet there are several specialist providers that may arrange recognised impound insurance — the type accepted by police compounds and local authority pounds for release purposes. Visitors to this site can obtain online quotes and, where preferred, discuss their situation directly with an authorised advisor who understands the process.

Why most insurers won’t cover impounded vehicles

Standard car insurance policies usually exclude cover for vehicles held in a pound. That exclusion exists because impound cases often involve lapses in insurance or legal compliance, both of which increase risk. Mainstream insurers may decline to issue new policies until the vehicle is back on the road and registered as active again. As a result, motorists typically need a specialist policy written specifically for impound release.

Specialist insurers that may provide impound cover

Only a small number of UK insurers are willing to underwrite these policies. Most operate through brokers who specialise in short-term or complex vehicle cover. The following companies are known to have offered compliant impound insurance products:

• Acorn Insurance – Well-established provider of short-term and niche policies, including impound release cover arranged through authorised advisors.
• Dash Insurance – Issues policies for cars held in police compounds, with both online application and telephone support available.
• Tempcover – Known for 30-day policies designed for impound release, usually issued electronically for immediate proof of cover.
• BP Insurance Brokers – Offers a 28-day impounded-vehicle policy suitable for release from most UK pounds.
• UK Sure Services – Specialises in temporary and impound-specific cover, providing flexible online and phone options.

These providers may vary in their terms, underwriting partners, and acceptance criteria. Some cover cars only, while others include vans or commercial vehicles. Always check the wording on the policy certificate before attending the pound to ensure it explicitly covers impound release and the named driver.

Online and telephone support

Visitors to this site can obtain quotes online at any time. The process takes just a few minutes and provides certificates accepted by most police compounds. Those who prefer to speak to someone directly can also request a call with a qualified, authorised advisor who understands the documentation needed for release and can guide through the steps calmly and clearly.

What to confirm before buying

Regardless of provider, check the following points before arranging cover:

• The certificate lists the correct vehicle registration number.
• The policy explicitly includes impound release in its permitted use.
• The policyholder is the registered keeper or has written authority from the keeper.
• The duration provides enough time for the vehicle to remain insured after release.

How these policies differ from ordinary car insurance

Impound insurance is a short-term product, usually lasting 30 days, intended only for legal release and temporary use. It may cost more than standard insurance, reflecting the higher perceived risk. However, once the car is home and legal again, it can be insured under a normal annual policy instead. The short-term certificate serves as proof of insurance for the pound and ensures the vehicle can be driven away legally.

Final note

Recognised impound insurance is available through several authorised UK providers. Each uses its own underwriting terms, but all share the same aim — to allow a legally compliant release of the vehicle. Quotes can be obtained online through this site, or by speaking with a qualified advisor who can explain what documentation will be needed at the pound and confirm which insurers currently accept impound cases.

Check here for more useful information about impounded cars!

Please note: impound rules, collection windows and fee structures are set locally and can change at any time. Details on this site offer a broad outline only and are not guaranteed to match the requirements of any individual pound or authority.