If your insurer has asked you to fit a tracker, start with the exact wording and the deadline on your policy. Confirm the required category or named device, arrange a suitable installation, activate the monitoring and send the evidence your insurer requests. At Thatcham Trackers, we can help you turn that requirement into a fitted S7, S5 or S5 Plus package.
Written by Thatcham Trackers. Product prices checked on 19 September 2026.
Before you buy: get these details in writing
A quick conversation with your broker or insurer can prevent an expensive wrong turn. Keep the reply with your policy documents so you, your installer and your insurer are working from the same requirement.
| Ask your insurer | Why it matters |
|---|---|
| Do you require S7, S5, added immobilisation or a named model? | A category and a specific device are different instructions. An alternative needs to be accepted before you order. |
| By what date must fitting and activation be completed? | An order confirmation is different from a completed installation. |
| What cover applies until that date? | Your policy determines any restriction. Do not assume a grace period or that booking a fitter changes it. |
| What documents do you need, and where should I send them? | You may be asked for installation details, device identification and evidence of active monitoring. |
| Are there ongoing requirements? | Check subscriptions, driver-tag use and any other security conditions. |
Match the device to the requirement
Thatcham Research lists S7 asset-location systems and S5 vehicle-tracking systems. S5 includes driver identification. Certification helps you identify a tested system; your insurer still decides what your individual policy accepts.
- Policy says S7: look at our Thatcham S7 and confirm that it meets any additional wording.
- Policy says S5: choose a suitable S5 system with driver recognition. S7 is not a substitute for a stated S5 requirement.
- Policy asks for added start protection: check the precise immobilisation requirement against our S5 Plus options.
- Policy names a brand or device: get written acceptance before replacing it with a different model.
Our standard S5 Plus uses tag-operated “No Tag, No Start” protection. The dedicated EV/hybrid version uses a PIN entered through vehicle buttons. “S5 Plus” describes added features rather than a separate category listed by Thatcham Research, so matching the exact system matters.
Budget for the fitted device and the monitoring
Our monitored packages keep the two costs visible. Professional fitting is included in the prices below, with appointments and coverage confirmed for your vehicle and location.
| Our package | Device and fitting | First year including 12 months at £10.99 |
|---|---|---|
| Thatcham S7 | £169 | £300.88 |
| Thatcham S5 | £349 | £480.88 |
| Standard Thatcham S5 Plus | £449 | £580.88 |
Figures exclude optional extras and assume the current monitoring rate. With monthly monitoring, the first month is paid at checkout and later monthly payments are arranged separately. You can also choose the available prepaid options. Our S5 cost guide explains the checkout and longer-term totals.
What if the insurer’s deadline is close?
Contact us before relying on an installation date. The dates entered during ordering are preferences; the appointment is confirmed separately. Tell us your postcode, vehicle, required system and deadline so we can check availability.
If fitting cannot happen in time, speak to your insurer or broker about what it will accept and what cover applies. Only it can confirm changes to the policy or an extension. Avoid treating an advertised lead time as a guaranteed booking.
From your order to the evidence for your insurer
- Choose the agreed package. Enter the vehicle and fitting information carefully, including the registration.
- Confirm the appointment. Check the location, vehicle access and any preparation instructions with the installation team.
- Complete fitting and activation. Get familiar with the app, driver tag or PIN where supplied, and the monitoring contact process.
- Check your certificate. Your installation certificate follows fitting and activation. Check that its vehicle and device details are correct.
- Send the requested evidence. Ask your insurer or broker to confirm that it has recorded the system against your policy.
See our installation and fitting guide for more about arranging a visit.
Questions we can help you answer
Does buying a tracker immediately satisfy the condition?
Buying is the first step. Follow the insurer’s requirements for fitting, activation and evidence; an order receipt alone may not be sufficient.
Will fitting a tracker reduce my premium?
Ask your insurer for a quote with the proposed system. A tracker can be required for cover even where the price does not fall, so budget for protection and monitoring without assuming a saving.
Can an existing tracker meet the requirement?
Possibly. Identify the exact device and check who provides its monitoring, whether it is active and whether your insurer accepts it. This is particularly useful when you have just bought a used vehicle.
Is a phone app or consumer location tag enough?
Do not assume it replaces the specified system. Send your insurer the exact product details and obtain confirmation if its suitability is unclear.
Let’s get the right protection arranged
Have your policy wording to hand and contact Thatcham Trackers, or compare S7, S5 and S5 Plus. We will help you choose a compatible package, understand its £10.99 monthly monitoring and arrange the next step towards fitting.