Zero Depreciation, or Zero Dep, is one of the most popular add-on covers available with motor insurance. It can reduce the depreciation deduction applied to eligible parts when a claim is settled, potentially lowering the amount you have to pay from your own pocket.

But there is one important detail many vehicle owners overlook: Zero Dep claims are not automatically unlimited.

How Many Zero Dep Claims Can You Make?

There is no single claim limit that applies to every insurance company or every motor insurance policy.

The number of Zero Dep claims allowed during a policy period depends on the insurer and the terms of your specific add-on cover.

According to insurance-sector expert Nikhil Mahajan, B2B Motor Head at Arham One (Secure), some insurers may allow only one Zero Dep claim, while others may allow two or, in certain policies, a much higher number of claims.

This means you should never assume that buying Zero Dep automatically gives you unlimited claims.

Why Do Insurers Put a Limit on Zero Dep Claims?

Zero Dep is an additional benefit over a standard motor insurance policy. Since the insurer agrees to reduce or waive depreciation deductions on eligible parts under the terms of the add-on, the cover can come with specific conditions and limits.

For example, one policy might allow a single Zero Dep claim during the policy period, while another could permit two.

Some insurers may offer higher claim limits under specific plans, but the premium and other terms can differ.

What Happens After You Exhaust the Limit?

Suppose your policy allows two Zero Dep claims and you have already used both.

If you make another eligible claim during the same policy period, the standard policy may still provide coverage according to its terms, but the Zero Dep benefit may no longer apply to that claim.

As a result, depreciation deductions could be applicable when the claim is settled, potentially increasing your out-of-pocket expense.

The exact treatment depends on your policy wording.

Can You Buy a Policy With More Zero Dep Claims?

In some cases, insurers offer different Zero Dep options with varying limits.

A policy with a higher number of permitted Zero Dep claims may come with a higher premium compared with a plan offering fewer claims.

Therefore, don't select a policy solely because it has the cheapest premium. Compare the Zero Dep claim limit along with other conditions and exclusions.

What Should You Check Before Buying Motor Insurance?

Before purchasing or renewing your policy, check these details:

• Number of Zero Dep claims allowed during the policy period

• Whether the limit applies per policy year or another defined period

• Parts covered under Zero Dep

• Exclusions and deductibles

• Age restrictions on the vehicle, if applicable

• Compulsory deductibles

• Whether the benefit applies to all types of claims

• Renewal conditions and premium

Always read the policy wording rather than relying only on the description shown on an insurance website or by an agent.

Zero Dep Does Not Mean Everything Is Covered

Another common misconception is that Zero Dep means the insurer will pay the entire repair bill.

That's not necessarily the case.

Zero Dep primarily addresses depreciation deductions on covered parts, subject to the policy's terms. Other deductibles, exclusions, consumables, damage not covered by the policy, and other applicable conditions can still affect the final claim settlement.

The Bottom Line

There is no universal rule saying that every motor insurance policy allows unlimited Zero Dep claims.

Some policies may allow one claim, others two, while certain plans can offer higher limits. The exact number depends on the insurer and policy terms.

So, before buying or renewing your vehicle insurance, always ask one important question: "How many Zero Dep claims are allowed during the policy period?"

Checking this small detail in advance can prevent an unpleasant surprise when you need to make a claim.