This question has recently been raised and it is an interesting one! As a board member do you need car insurance which allows for business use? The requirements for having business use on an insurance policy differ according to insurance company guidelines. Most personal car policies will exclude coverage for the vehicle while it’s being used for business purposes other than going to and from work or to and from board meetings.

Hugh Laird, director at the Board Development Agency gives us his advice:

"Business use is the use of a vehicle which is required by the duties of the primary operator in his or her occupation, profession or business, other than going to or from work, so on the face of it you would be OK, if you were simply driving to the office and back. However if you used your vehicle to go to a training event or conference or gave a lift to another member you may find yourself in an unwelcome argument with your insurer if you do have to make a claim!"

The advice is to talk to your insurer as they will certainly have a view. Even if the board membership is voluntary and non paid going in your car somewhere for the purpose of doing your board duty could constitute business use.

If it is necessary in your case, your organisation’s expense policy should cover any additional premium.