Lay-Up Cover
Coverage Explained

Lay-Up Cover

Lay-up cover allows you to reduce your premium during periods when your jet ski is not being used, typically over the winter months or during extended storage. During the lay-up period, your policy continues to cover static risks such as fire, theft, storm damage, and accidental damage while the craft is in storage. Waterway use is excluded during lay-up, which is why premiums are lower and makes this a cost-effective option for seasonal riders.

The terms and conditions of any coverage type vary between underwriters. A specialist marine insurance broker can compare what is available across multiple NZ insurers and recommend the structure that best fits your craft, usage, and budget — at no cost to you.

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Policy Detail

What Is and Is Not Covered

Typically Included

  • Fire and theft protection while the craft is in storage
  • Storm and weather damage to the craft in its stored position
  • Accidental damage while being loaded, unloaded, or repositioned in storage
  • Trailer cover if the craft is stored on its trailer
  • Flexible start and end dates for the lay-up period

Common Exclusions

  • Any waterway use during the declared lay-up period
  • Damage resulting from use on water while lay-up endorsement is active
  • Claims that arise outside the geographic area of the declared storage location

Exclusions vary between policies. A broker can clarify exact terms available to you.

Why use a broker

How a Specialist Broker Helps

Coverage types are not identical across underwriters. A specialist broker shops the market so you get the best terms for your craft.

Compare the market

A broker accesses multiple NZ marine underwriters — finding the policy with the best terms for your specific coverage need, not just the first available option.

Read the fine print

Policy exclusions and sub-limits are not always obvious. A broker will identify the clauses that matter for how you use your craft and flag any gaps.

Support at claim time

If a claim arises, your broker advocates on your behalf — explaining what happened to the insurer and helping you navigate the process to the best outcome.

Get a broker recommendation for Lay-Up Cover

No cost, no obligation. The broker earns a commission from the insurer if you proceed.

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Common Questions

Frequently Asked Questions

What does Lay-Up Cover cover for jet ski owners?

Lay-up cover allows you to reduce your premium during periods when your jet ski is not being used, typically over the winter months or during extended storage. During the lay-up period, your policy continues to cover static risks such as fire, theft, storm damage, and accidental damage while the craft is in storage. Waterway use is excluded during lay-up, which is why premiums are lower and makes this a cost-effective option for seasonal riders.

How do I know if this coverage is right for my situation?

The best way to determine the right coverage structure is to speak with a specialist marine insurance broker. A broker can assess your craft, usage, and financial circumstances and recommend a policy structure — rather than fitting you into a standard retail product. The referral service at jetskiinsurance.co.nz connects you with specialist brokers at no cost.

Can I add this coverage to an existing policy?

In many cases, yes. If you already have marine insurance, your broker may be able to endorse additional coverage types onto your existing policy. Alternatively, a new policy that bundles the coverage structures you need may provide better terms and simpler administration. Discuss your current policy with a specialist broker before assuming what can and cannot be added.

Does this coverage apply when I am using my jet ski interstate or across the Tasman?

Most NZ marine policies include a geographic coverage area that covers NZ coastal and inland waterways. Cover in Australian territorial waters or on overseas trips typically requires a specific extension and may attract additional premium. If you travel with your craft, make sure you discuss geographic limits with your broker before your trip.

What is the claims process for this type of coverage?

Contact your broker or insurer as soon as possible after an incident. You will be asked to describe what happened, provide photos where relevant, and submit a police report if theft is involved. A specialist insurer will then arrange an assessment. Your broker can advocate on your behalf if any aspect of the claim is disputed — one of the key advantages of using a specialist rather than going direct to an insurer.

Written by

Darin Butler

15 years experience in marine and personal watercraft insurance across New Zealand and Australia. Darin works with specialist marine brokers and coordinates the Cover4You referral network.

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Referred to Registered Financial Service Providers. We do not provide financial advice.