Insurance - length of validity of No claims

[Fats25]

I sold my last car in November 2006 and since then have been riding my bikes, and driving the gf's car. I have never claimed in 12 years of driving, so had full protected no claims when I sold the last car - and have a letter from the previous insurer stating this - dated 11/06.

How long will insurers allow my no-claims to be valid before it "lapses"? I have it in my head that it is 2 years - but I have no idea where I have got that from.

I don't actually need a car - but if it is the choice of losing my no claims and starting again, or buying a car before November 2008 and keeping no claims valid, I will buy a cheap run around now - as otherwise I will never be able to afford insurance when I do finally get my next decent car!

As usual - any advice much appreciated.

[justlivyalife]

2 years, generally .

[Derek Smith]

Check with your last insurer. It can be as short as one year which was my experience when I dumped a car for a bike. However, I negotiated directly with the company I had my bike with (I think Norwich Union but could be wrong) and they 'allowed' me full discount but would not allow me to take it to another company.