This updated guide explains how to choose equine insurance: prefer specialist insurers, obtain multiple quotes, compare policy wording, verify vet-certificate requirements, and declare pre-existing conditions. It emphasizes recordkeeping and prompt reporting to improve claim outcomes.

Why equine insurance matters

Owning a horse carries financial and legal risks: veterinary bills, mortality, theft, injury to others, and loss of use. Insurance helps manage those risks. Some owners choose full cover; others select basic policies or none at all. Decide what you can afford and what risks are most important to you.

Start with a specialist insurer

Choose a specialist equine insurer when possible. Specialist companies typically write more horse-focused policies and handle equine claims more often, which can mean clearer policy wording and better claims experience. That said, premiums and terms still vary - compare options.

Shop for quotes and compare policy wording

Get at least three quotes and request full policy documents, not just price lists. Policies differ in:
  • What they cover (mortality, major medical/surgical, veterinary fees, theft, public liability, loss of use)
  • Limits, sublimits, and excesses
  • Exclusions for pre-existing conditions or specific activities
  • Requirements for vet certificates and pre-purchase examinations
Compare wording, not just price. A cheaper premium can cost more if the policy excludes common treatments or has low limits.

Age, pre-existing conditions, and older horses

Insurers set different age limits and underwriting rules. Some will insure older horses with conditions excluded; others may decline. Declare any known problems on application. Hiding issues can invalidate future claims.

Vet certificates and pre-purchase exams

Many policies require a veterinary certificate or a recent pre-purchase exam, especially for higher-value animals or mortality cover. Verify the insurer's required form, the acceptable age of the certificate, and whether the pre-purchase exam can be used after purchase. If you plan to buy, ask the seller to arrange a veterinary exam that meets insurer requirements.

Recordkeeping and claims handling

Tell your insurer about any health or behavior problems as soon as they arise - even if you don't file a claim immediately. Keep detailed records: vet reports, invoices, photos, microchip details, and treatment notes. These documents speed assessments and support your claim.

Practical checklist before you buy a policy

  • Decide which covers you need (mortality, veterinary fees, liability, loss of use).
  • Check insurer reputation for claims handling (reviews, references).
  • Confirm vet certificate requirements and acceptable exam reports.
  • Note age limits and how pre-existing conditions are treated.
  • Keep clear records and report issues promptly.
A good working relationship with your insurer, honest disclosures, and careful policy comparison will help you pick cover that matches your horse, your activities, and your budget.

FAQs about Equine Insurance

Do I need a vet certificate to insure my horse?
Many insurers require a veterinary certificate or recent pre-purchase exam for higher-value animals or mortality cover. Check the specific insurer's form, how recent the certificate must be, and whether a pre-purchase exam will be accepted after purchase.
Can I insure an older horse or one with health issues?
Possibly. Underwriting rules and age limits vary by company. Insurers commonly offer cover with specific conditions excluded rather than decline outright. Always declare known issues - failure to disclose can invalidate claims.
What types of cover should I consider?
Common options include mortality (death), major medical/surgical or veterinary-fees cover, public liability, theft, and loss-of-use cover. Choose based on your horse's value, activity level, and your finances.
How do I compare policies effectively?
Request full policy documents and compare the scope of cover, limits, excesses, exclusions, and claim processes. Look beyond premium quotes to how the policy responds to common claims and treatments.
What records should I keep for a claim?
Keep vet reports, invoices, treatment notes, photos, microchip information, and timelines of incidents. Report health issues promptly to the insurer, even if you do not immediately claim.