Berkley One Classics Introduces Expanded and Modernized Collector Vehicle Coverage Across Five States
Berkley One, a Berkley Company and a leading specialist insurance brand serving modern, discerning individuals and families, has announced a significant expansion of its Berkley One Classics collector vehicle insurance program. The latest enhancements are being rolled out in Connecticut, Illinois, Massachusetts, New York, and Texas, marking another major step in the company’s long-standing commitment to providing forward-thinking protection for the collector car community. Now in its 51st year of supporting automotive enthusiasts, Berkley One Classics continues to evolve its offerings with upgraded coverage, improved contract language, and highly customizable options that reflect the changing needs of today’s collectors.
The introduction of the newly enhanced policy represents a strategic initiative to position Berkley One at the forefront of the collector vehicle insurance market. With collectors increasingly seeking tailored protections that address not only the financial value of their vehicles but also the lifestyle and passion associated with ownership, Berkley One’s updated program aims to deliver a comprehensive and flexible solution that keeps pace with evolving expectations.
A Modernized Base Contract to Support Today’s Collectors
One of the core updates involves refinements to the base contract itself. As collector vehicles become more sophisticated and the ownership experience more multifaceted, the company recognized the need to revisit foundational policy provisions and ensure alignment with current collector behavior.
Among the most notable updates is the extension of the time limit for Newly Acquired Vehicles. Previously capped at 30 days, owners now have up to 60 days to notify Berkley One of newly added collector vehicles. This extension provides additional flexibility for collectors who frequently acquire vehicles through auctions, private sales, or estate transactions, and who require time to finalize documentation, restoration work, or transport arrangements.
Another meaningful change is the removal of the vermin exclusion. In many parts of the country, collector vehicles are stored for extended periods in garages, barns, or specialty facilities. Removing this exclusion acknowledges real-world storage conditions and reduces the burden on collectors whose vehicles may be affected by unforeseen environmental issues.
Additionally, Berkley One Classics has added a new Disaster Relocation coverage provision. This coverage offers up to $500 per vehicle, with a cap of $5,000 per policy period, to help policyholders move vehicles out of harm’s way in the event of natural catastrophes. Whether a collector is facing an approaching wildfire, hurricane, or major flooding event, the added protection helps offset the logistical costs of relocating valuable vehicles before damage can occur. As climate-related risks intensify across the country, this proactive coverage is increasingly relevant and demonstrates Berkley One’s focus on real-world risk mitigation.
Customizable Endorsements for Enhanced Protection
In addition to broader contract improvements, Berkley One is introducing a suite of new endorsements designed to give collectors greater control over how their vehicles are protected. These optional coverages recognize the diversity of the collector community—from owners of vintage muscle cars, luxury exotics, and restored classics to those with large multi-vehicle collections or specialized automotive equipment.
One of the new offerings is the Salvage Value Endorsement, which allows insured collectors to retain the salvage of a vehicle valued at up to $50,000 in the event of a total covered loss. This feature is particularly significant for enthusiasts who place emotional or restoration value on retaining a vehicle, even if declared a total loss. Retaining salvage can allow collectors to rebuild a cherished vehicle, preserve rare components, or integrate parts into future restoration projects. The endorsement offers both sentimental and practical value, reinforcing the company’s recognition of the deep personal connections many collectors have with their vehicles.
Complementing this is the One Value Endorsement, a bundled coverage option that consolidates several essential protections into a single endorsement. This package covers a broad range of collector necessities, including:
- Car covers and protective accessories
- Post-loss trailering services
- Automotive tools essential to maintenance or restoration
- Personal effects stored inside the vehicle
- Valuable vehicle papers such as titles, historical documentation, or restoration records
By combining these coverages, Berkley One provides a streamlined, cost-effective solution that eliminates the need for collectors to manage multiple standalone endorsements. This reflects the company’s ongoing commitment to creating policy options that are both comprehensive and easy to understand.
A Commitment Aligned With Collector Values
According to Kathleen Tierney, President of Berkley One, the overarching goal of the enhanced program is to align insurance coverage with the passion that drives the collector car community.
“Our goal is to give collectors confidence that their vehicles are protected in ways that reflect both their passion and the realities of today’s market,” Tierney said. “By expanding options and refining coverage, we’re making it easier for clients to help safeguard what matters most to them.”
Her statement underscores the company’s dual focus: addressing practical insurance needs while also honoring the heritage, emotional investment, and personal pride associated with collectible vehicles.
Broad and Growing National Availability
Berkley One Classics continues to expand its national footprint. The company currently offers collector vehicle insurance in a wide range of states including Arizona, Colorado, Connecticut, Florida, Georgia, Idaho, Illinois, Indiana, Iowa, Kansas, Massachusetts, Michigan, Minnesota, Missouri, Montana, Nebraska, New York, North Dakota, Ohio, Oregon, Pennsylvania, South Dakota, Texas, Utah, Virginia, Washington, Wisconsin, and Wyoming.
The latest enhancements have been formally introduced in nine key states: Arizona, Connecticut, Georgia, Illinois, Massachusetts, Michigan, New York, Pennsylvania, and Texas. These states represent regions with large and active collector communities, significant automotive event activity, and strong demand for specialty insurance services. Berkley One has indicated that additional states will receive the updated coverage in the coming months as regulatory approvals and product development timelines advance.
About Berkley One
Berkley One is a member company of W. R. Berkley Corporation, one of the United States’ most respected commercial property and casualty insurance providers. Founded in 1967, W. R. Berkley conducts business globally through more than 60 operating units and reported $14.2 billion in gross premiums written in 2024. The company’s insurance subsidiaries hold an A+ (Superior) rating from A.M. Best Company, reflecting their financial strength, stability, and long-term ability to support customers.
Berkley One’s offerings span a broad range of personal insurance solutions for modern, high-value clients, including home, auto, fine art, jewelry, recreational vehicles, and now, enhanced collector vehicle coverage. Products and services are issued through one or more subsidiary insurers of W. R. Berkley Corporation. Availability varies by state, and coverage terms are subject to the actual policy documents issued.
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