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How to Remove Bulkhead from the Van: All the Regulations in the UK

22 October 2024

For professionals considering van conversions, the question of whether or not to remove the van bulkhead is a common one. Bulkheads separate the driver’s cab from the cargo area and serve a variety of purposes, from safety to structural integrity.

Bulkheads can also hinder accessibility and functionality for those looking to convert their vans into mobile workshops or storage units. Read on if you want to know how to remove the van bulkhead from your van racking system.

It It Legal To Remove the Van Bulkhead in the UK?

Removing the bulkhead can leave your van’s interior exposed. This practice has benefits for drivers and is legal in the UK as long as the modifications are approved. The most important factor is ensuring that the modification does not compromise the vehicle’s safety.

This means that the structural integrity of the van must be maintained, and any safety features, such as airbags or seatbelts, must not be affected.

Additionally, it’s essential to comply with local regulations regarding vehicle modifications. While removing a bulkhead is often allowed, some areas may have specific rules or require inspections to ensure the safety of the modified vehicle.

While removing the van bulkhead may not affect the van’s structural integrity, it’s a significant modification that should be reported to your insurance provider. They will assess the potential impact on safety and security and adjust your insurance premium accordingly.

Can You Remove The Bulkhead from a Van? Benefits

Bulkheads can provide insulation, preventing the living area from becoming too hot or cold. If you remove the bulkhead, ensure proper insulation to maintain a comfortable temperature year-round.

Removing the bulkhead creates a more open and spacious interior, providing more room for activities like sleeping, cooking, or working. Without the obstruction of the bulkhead, you have greater flexibility to design the interior layout to suit your specific needs.

A bulkhead-free interior can also create a more modern and streamlined aesthetic, giving your van a clean and spacious feel. The customisation options for professionals are greater.

Removing the van bulkhead from a van can provide a clearer rearward view, improving safety and maneuverability. This is particularly beneficial for those who drive in tight spaces.

What Other Modifications Could Affect My Insurance?

When making modifications to your campervan, it’s crucial to inform your insurance provider about any changes that could potentially affect your coverage:

  • Exterior Modifications: Adding features like a roof rack, bike racks or mirrors can alter the van’s appearance and functionality, potentially impacting insurance premiums.
  • Interior Modifications: Installing internal components such as water tanks, cookers, stoves, seats, or storage facilities can change the van’s insurance coverage.
  • Decorative Changes: While changes like custom paint or decals may not directly impact safety, they could influence insurance premiums based on the insurer’s assessment.
  • Mechanical Upgrades: Upgrading the engine, suspension, or brakes to improve performance or handling can also affect your insurance. These changes might be seen as increasing the risk of accidents or damage, leading to higher premiums.
  • Electrical Installations: Fitting additional electrical systems such as upgraded lighting, sound systems, or solar panels could be seen as a potential fire hazard or increase the value of the vehicle, both of which might influence your insurance coverage and premiums.
  • Security Enhancements: Installing security features like alarms, immobilisers, or trackers can positively impact your insurance by reducing the likelihood of theft. Some insurers may offer discounts for vehicles with improved security systems.

By keeping your insurance provider informed of all modifications, you can ensure your coverage remains adequate and protect your investment in your mobile home.

Removing bulkhead from your van is legal in the UK, but you must first meet certain requirements for the vehicle to be approved. In this sense, at Tecnolam based in the UK we offer the best van racking ideas tailored to the needs of professionals such as installers, electricians, craftsman, plumber and carpenter.

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