Why can NCB only be applied to one insurance policy?

[Krupp Stahl]

I've built up a certain amount of no claims bonus over the years which I use for the insurance policy on my E46 M3.

On buying a second small car for use as a daily, it turns out that the NCB I've accrued over the years on my existing and previous policies is not valid for the use on policy for my second car, only the first. So I have to apply for the new second policy effectively with zero NCB and for which I shall get correspondingly raped in the process.

Is there any legitimate reason for this rule? Because at first glance, it appears to be an arbitrarily applied cynical rip-off tactic.

Or perhaps there's a very good reason why I can legitimately be classed as a more experienced lower risk driver with years of trouble-free motoring under my belt when I climb into the M3, but then suddenly become a high risk 'green' driver of unproven history when I climb into the VW Polo? To me, that doesn't make alot of sense.

If you buy a multi-car policy, can NCB then be applied to multiple vehicles?

[Sinatra21]

Some companies will mirror your ncb on another car. It dies not have to be the same company either, example Adrian flux mirrored my 8 years ncb from a car insured with sky.

[mikeyr]

Honestly I've never had issues with using one NCD for more than one policy when had two cars previously.

DISCLAIMER: This may have been my mistake at the time for not realising so maybe the rules have changed or they are more stringent in doing their checks now...

[rudebhoy]

Well i just got insurance on a second car and NCB was applied . I think as its pretty cheap . One of the questions was do you own another car which i said yes.

[c81]

Generally, I've found that NCB cant be used on more than one car, but if you claim, you have to announce it on all policies. Seems a bit one sided to me!