Ireland is a horse country in every sense. In late 2025, the Department of Agriculture reported an equine population of 120,912 across 22,593 active equine premises. gov.ie That scale matters, because risk scales with it. Therefore, buying Equine Insurance and insurance choices matter too.
Meanwhile, our equine economy is serious business. Horse Sport Ireland has highlighted a sport horse sector worth over €1 billion annually, supporting about 47,000 jobs directly and indirectly. horsesportireland.ie+1 In other words, horses are passion and livelihood here. So, the wrong cover can hurt twice.
As a result, understanding common mistakes is essential before choosing cover with Clear Insurance Ireland or any specialist provider.
One of the biggest issues is that insurance is often purchased quickly. Many owners focus on cost first, rather than protection. However, equine insurance works best when it reflects real Irish risks, real horse values, and real veterinary costs. Unfortunately, several mistakes appear again and again.
Underinsuring the True Value of the Horse
Underinsuring is the most common error among Irish horse owners. In many cases, it is not deliberate. Owners often choose a figure that feels sensible at the time of purchase. However, that number may not reflect the horse’s current market value.
In Ireland, horse values can rise quickly. Competition success, professional training, or breeding potential can significantly increase worth. Therefore, a horse insured for too little may leave the owner seriously exposed. In the event of mortality or theft, the payout is capped at the insured value, not the replacement cost.
Additionally, some veterinary and surgical benefits are linked to the sum insured. As a result, underinsuring can reduce medical support when it is needed most. To avoid this, owners should review values regularly and keep clear proof of purchase, training, and competition results.
Ignoring Exclusions in the Policy Wording
Another frequent mistake is overlooking exclusions. Many owners skim the policy summary and never read the detailed wording. While this is understandable, exclusions determine what is not covered, and that matters most during a claim.
In Ireland, colic remains one of the most common equine emergencies. Yet not all colic-related treatments are covered equally. Some policies limit surgery, diagnostics, or aftercare costs. Others impose waiting periods before cover begins.
Exclusions may also apply to specific limbs, conditions, or disciplines. For example, a horse competing regularly may face different exclusions than a leisure horse. Therefore, owners should review exclusions carefully before purchase, not during a crisis.
Waiting Until After a Diagnosis to Take Out Insurance
Timing is critical in equine insurance. Many owners delay taking out cover, hoping a minor issue will resolve itself. Unfortunately, once a vet records a condition, it can become pre-existing.
In Ireland, veterinary records are taken seriously by insurers. Even a mild lameness note can restrict future cover. Consequently, applying for insurance after a diagnosis often results in exclusions or refusal.
This is especially important when buying a horse. Insurance discussions should happen alongside the pre-purchase examination. That approach helps avoid gaps in cover and unexpected restrictions. Acting early protects both the horse and the owner’s finances.
Choosing Insurance That Does Not Match Horse Use
Irish horses are used in many different ways. Some are pleasure horses, others compete weekly, and many travel regularly. Despite this, owners often choose generic cover that does not reflect how the horse is actually used.
Risk increases with transport, competition, and changes of environment. A horse attending shows or training clinics faces different exposures than one kept at home. Therefore, the policy must reflect real activity, not assumptions.
Equally, breeding and trading horses carry different financial risks. Values can fluctuate seasonally, and insurance should be flexible enough to reflect that. Matching cover to use is essential for meaningful protection.
Overlooking Liability and Third-Party Risk
Many owners focus only on the horse itself. However, liability risk can be even more costly. Horses interact with people, property, and public spaces every day.
Ireland has thousands of small equine premises, often involving shared facilities and informal help. Accidents can happen unexpectedly. If a horse causes injury or damage, liability cover becomes crucial.
Owners should always check who is covered under their policy. They should also confirm where the horse is insured to be kept and used. Clear liability cover provides peace of mind beyond veterinary costs.
Not Understanding Excesses, Limits, and Claim Procedures
Even good insurance can disappoint if the structure is misunderstood. Excess levels, claim limits, and co-insurance clauses all affect payouts. In addition, many policies require prompt notification and prior approval for certain treatments.
During emergencies, stress can cause owners to miss important steps. As a result, claims may be reduced or declined. Preparing in advance helps avoid this situation. Keeping policy details accessible ensures quicker, calmer decisions when time matters.
A Smarter Approach for Irish Horse Owners
A better buying process starts with clarity. Owners should define the horse’s value, primary risks, and intended use. From there, policies can be compared based on real outcomes, not just premiums.
Annual reviews are also important. Horses change, markets change, and risks change. Insurance should evolve alongside the horse’s life and career.
Buying Equine Insurance
Ready to learn more? Contact Clear Insurance Ireland today to discuss your coverage needs. Let us help you ride with confidence.
Discover our full range of insurance services at www.clearinsuranceireland.com
Disclaimer
This article is provided for general information purposes only and does not constitute financial, legal, or insurance advice. Insurance terms, conditions, exclusions, and eligibility vary by policy and individual circumstances. Horse owners should always review policy documentation carefully and seek professional advice from a qualified insurance broker, such as Clear Insurance Ireland, before making any insurance decisions.
