What a KASKO programme consists of
KASKO is voluntary insurance of the car itself against damage, total loss and theft. Unlike OSAGO (compulsory motor third-party liability insurance), KASKO terms are set by each insurer in its own rules, so there are many programmes on the market. Any of them can be broken down into four elements: the set of risks, the deductible, the form of settlement and the add-ons.
Main programmes by set of risks
Full KASKO
Includes the "Damage" and "Theft" risks (theft of the vehicle or its parts). "Damage" usually covers road accidents, fire, natural disasters, falling objects, unlawful acts of third parties and glass breakage. This is the broadest and most expensive option. Banks and leasing companies most often require it if the car is bought on credit or leased.
Partial KASKO
Only the "Damage" risk, without theft. Suitable for cars that are rarely stolen, or for owners who keep the car in a guarded car park.
Mini KASKO
Cut-down programmes with a limited set of risks: for example, only total loss and theft, or only damage in an accident caused by another driver. These policies are noticeably cheaper and suit cars older than five to seven years.
KASKO 50/50
You pay half the premium first. If there are no claims during the year, the second half is not payable. On the first claim, the client pays the second half — a good deal for careful drivers.
Deductible: how to save on the policy
A deductible (franchise) is the part of a loss the insurer does not pay. The higher it is, the cheaper the policy.
- Unconditional — deducted from every payment. The most popular option.
- Conditional — if the loss is below the deductible, nothing is paid; if above, it is paid in full.
- Dynamic — the deductible increases with each subsequent claim.
- At-fault deductible — applies only to accidents caused by the policyholder.
Forms of settlement
- Repair at a dealer's service station — best for new cars under warranty.
- Repair at a service station chosen by the insurer — cheaper, but the insurer picks the workshop.
- Cash payment based on a cost estimate — calculated by the insurer or an independent expert.
- Payment of a workshop invoice chosen by the client — less common and more expensive.
Check whether the payment is calculated with or without wear and tear on parts. For new cars, choose "without wear and tear".
Aggregate and non-aggregate sum insured
With an aggregate sum insured, each payment reduces the limit for the rest of the contract term. With a non-aggregate sum, the limit is not reduced after payments. The second option is more reliable, especially if you drive a lot.
Useful add-ons
- GAP — covers the difference between the KASKO payment and the price of a new car or the outstanding loan in case of theft or total loss;
- towing and roadside assistance;
- an accident commissioner visiting the scene and collecting certificates;
- a replacement car during repairs;
- liability cover above OSAGO limits (DSAGO — voluntary motor third-party liability insurance);
- accident insurance for the driver and passengers;
- insurance of additional equipment.
How to choose a programme
| Situation | What to consider |
|---|---|
| New car, loan or lease | Full KASKO, dealer repair, no wear and tear deduction, GAP |
| Car 3–5 years old, experienced driver | Full or partial KASKO with an unconditional deductible |
| Car older than 7 years | Mini KASKO: total loss and theft, or accidents caused by another driver |
| Frequently stolen model | Always include "Theft"; check anti-theft system requirements |
Frequently asked questions
Can I change the programme mid-term?
Usually yes: insurers let you add options or drivers for an extra premium. Reducing the set of risks is harder — it often means early termination and a new contract.
Is a vehicle inspection required?
For a new car straight from the showroom, an inspection is usually not needed. For a used car, or when switching from another company, the insurer inspects the car or asks for photos via an app.
What if I do not report changes?
If you start using the car as a taxi, rent it out or change the anti-theft system without telling the insurer, this may lead to a dispute over the claim. Agree changes in writing.
Before signing the contract
- Read the exclusions section of the rules: who is allowed to drive, and what happens if the car is driven without a licence or under the influence.
- Check the deadlines for reporting an insured event and the list of documents.
- Ask whether an inspection and an anti-theft system are required.
You can estimate the cost in the KASKO calculator, and read more about price factors in what determines the cost of KASKO. Polis Re specialists will compare programmes from different insurers based on your request.