Auto Parts as Art Work

November 22, 2011

The insured had many classic auto parts on his walls as art. Parts used included a Corvette hood, a steering wheel, hubcaps, and a rear seat that was used in making a sofa.

Obviously none of these items were going back on a vehicle. They were purchased as décor to hang on the wall or display in the home. The carrier is excluding the items as auto parts and refuses to cover them.

In this instance would the items be defined as auto parts or as art? If I were to buy a sculpture made of welded together car parts, would that be excluded as well? What about a car hood that had a painting on it?

Should these items be covered given the fact they were purchased and displayed as art or décor and not to be utilized on a vehicle?

Indiana Subscriber

Check the policy language. The ISO HO 00 03 policy states that accessories, equipment, and parts of autos are excluded only when such property is in or upon the motor vehicle. Parts used as artwork are no longer vehicle parts, they are art. Modern artists are known for using a wide variety of materials, and even if the insured just bought old auto parts and hung them up, they are still art. The loss should be paid.