Category: Blog

Ireland faces a significant challenge in reducing greenhouse gas emissions, with the transportation sector being one of the most significant contributors. As a result, there has been a growing interest in alternative modes of transportation, such as hybrid and electric cars. In this article, we will explore the benefits and drawbacks of owning a hybrid or electric car in Ireland, as well as the current state of the market.

The Difference Between a Hybrid Car and an Electric Car

Hybrid cars use a conventional gasoline engine and an electric motor, while electric cars are powered entirely by electricity. The electric motor in a hybrid car assists the gasoline engine, improving fuel efficiency and reducing emissions.

On the other hand, electric cars have no gasoline engines and are powered solely by an electric motor.

Environmental Impact of Hybrid and Electric Cars

One of the significant benefits of hybrid and electric cars is their ability to reduce greenhouse gas emissions and improve air quality. Electric cars are not emitting exhaust fumes, so they are zero-emission vehicles. Even hybrid cars produce fewer emissions than conventional gasoline cars, making them an attractive option for environmentally conscious drivers.

Availability of Hybrid and Electric Cars in Ireland

Hybrid and electric cars are becoming increasingly popular in Ireland, with a growing number of models available from various manufacturers. Some popular hybrid and electric cars available in Ireland include the Toyota Prius, Nissan Leaf, and the Volkswagen e-Golf. Additionally, the Irish government offers a range of incentives, such as grants and tax reliefs, to encourage the purchase of hybrid and electric cars.

Running Costs of Hybrid Cars

As well as being more eco-friendly than petrol or diesel cars, hybrid cars are also typically cheaper to run. However, they are also generally more expensive to purchase, so the question is, are they worth the investment?

According to evcompare.ie, the purchase price in Ireland for most hybrid cars is 15% – 25% higher than their non-hybrid equivalents. But on the other hand, they have also confirmed that you can typically save 10% – 20% on both fuel and road tax. Maintenance costs align with their petrol/diesel equivalents, although these costs increase over time as some of their parts are more expensive to replace.

It should also be noted that the resale value of hybrid vehicles also tends to be better than non-hybrid ones.

Electric Cars

BEVs (Battery Electric Vehicles) run solely on an electric motor and rechargeable battery.

The cost savings you can make on fuel by driving an electric car can be significant. As per the ESB, for a person who drives an average of 400km per week, the savings you can make are as follows:

Weekly Fuel Cost Electric Car (e.g. Nissan Leaf = €5.08 Diesel Car (e.g. Nissan Leaf equivalent) = €31.48 Petrol Car (e.g. Nissan Leaf equivalent) = €43.20

For most people, the main deterrent of getting an electric car is the worry about having to re-charge it. However,there are currently 1200 public charge points across Ireland, and they can be found in car parks, retail and leisure venues and various on-street locations.

The charging time depends on the model of the vehicle and how full the battery is when it’s plugged in. Charging time can take from one to eight hours.

There are 70 Fast Chargers around the Republic of Ireland, primarily installed at service stations to facilitate longer journeys between major towns and cities. On average, a fast charge point can charge an electric vehicle up to 80% in as little as 25 minutes.

Grants

The Sustainable Energy Authority of Ireland (SEAI) provides grants of up to €5,000 for private electric vehicle purchases and up to €3,800 for commercial purchases. This will be reduced to €3,500 on 1 July 2023

In addition, there is a VRT relief of up to €5,000 for electric vehicles purchased and registered between 1 July 2021 and 31 December 2021. The government also provides a grant of up to €600 for installing an electric vehicle home charger.

These grants and incentives aim to encourage the transition towards sustainable transportation and reduce greenhouse gas emissions in Ireland.

No matter what type of car you’re considering, KennCo is always happy to give you a quick and secure quote.

No Claims Bonus after Two Years

Have you lived outside of Ireland for the past two years? Are you looking for car insurance and wondering if you will still have your No Claims Bonus in Ireland?

In most cases if you’ve been away for more than two years, your no-claims bonus may have expired. Some car insurance companies may even refuse to quote you. That’s where KennCo Insurance steps in. KennCo takes foreign driving experience into account and we’ll be glad to give you a quote. 

During the economic downturn, the level of emigration from Ireland soared.  In 2015, over 35,000 Irish citizens emigrated from Ireland, with the UK, Canada and Australia being the top three destinations attracting Irish job-seekers. But in recent times due to an improved economy and increased job prospects, the amount of emigrants returning to Ireland has increased. Re-adjusting to life in Ireland can be expensive, especially when you need to sort our accommodation, employment and car insurance. So any reduction in the price of your car insurance will be welcome.

Having a no claims bonus can make a big difference to the cost of your premium. KennCo Insurance offers a 64% discount on your premium when you have 5 or more years no claims bonus. 

We may require additional information such as proof of driving abroad.

Call 01 409 2600. today to discuss your driving history with one of our insurance agents. 

The Commercial Vehicle Road-worthiness Test (CVRT)

The CVRT was originally known as a DoE Test and is a test that van drivers must undergo every year for roadworthiness. Vans are due for their first CVRT test exactly one year after your van was first registered. The CVRT is not limited to just vans. It includes all commercial vehicles, buses and other vehicles that can carry more than 8 people at a time. 

What is the purpose of the CVRT? 

The CVRT ensures that your van meets the basic safety standards necessary to drive on roads in Ireland. There has been an increase in the emphasis on vehicle safety in Ireland in the past decade. Owners of vans and large vehicles are now required to carry out regular checks, including daily walk-around checks. 

How to prepare for the test

Preparing for your CVRT Test

Most of the following tips apply to keeping your van on the road for longer and not just passing the test. Taking care of your van maintenance routinely will reduce costs in the future. 

Insuring you Van

As Summer approaches, now is your last chance to go hitting the slopes for a ski holiday. Most European ski resorts will close at the end of April, so book now if you want to go. Europe is home to some of the best ski resorts in the world, with something to offer for everyone, from beginners to advanced skiers. Here are some of the best ski resorts in Europe that are perfect for an action-packed trip:

1. Val d’Isere, France

Located in the French Alps, Val d’Isere is one of the most popular ski resorts in Europe. With over 300 kilometres of ski runs and access to the Espace Killy ski area, it’s a paradise for advanced skiers. 

However, there are plenty of options for beginners, with over 20 ski schools in the area. 

Val d’Isere is also known for its vibrant nightlife, with plenty of bars, restaurants, and nightclubs.

2. St. Anton, Austria

St. Anton is a charming ski village in the Arlberg region of Austria. It’s known for its challenging ski runs, with over 305 kilometres of ski slopes and off-piste terrain. 

However, plenty of beginner options exist, with ski schools and gentle runs. St. Anton is also famous for its après-ski scene, with plenty of bars and restaurants to enjoy after a long day on the slopes.

The ski resort boasts 87 modern cable cars and lifts that adhere to the highest safety, comfort, and efficiency standards. Additionally, the region holds a prominent position as one of the founding members of ‘Best of the Alps‘, a prestigious quality association comprising 13 of the most distinguished alpine destinations.

3. Zermatt, Switzerland

Zermatt is one of Europe’s most iconic ski resorts in the Swiss Alps. It’s famous for its views of the Matterhorn, one of the highest peaks in the Alps. 

Zermatt offers over 360 kilometres of ski runs and a range of slopes for all levels of skiers. It’s also a car-free town, with a charming atmosphere and plenty of high-end shops and restaurants.

4. Chamonix, France

Chamonix is located in the French Alps and is one of the oldest ski resorts in Europe. It’s famous for its challenging ski runs, including the legendary Vallée Blanche, a 20-kilometre off-piste run. 

However, plenty of beginner options exist, with ski schools and gentle slopes. Chamonix is also known for its stunning views of Mont Blanc, the highest peak in Europe.

5. Livigno, Italy

Livigno is a ski resort in the Italian Alps near the Swiss border. It’s known for its excellent value for money, with affordable accommodation and lift tickets. 

Livigno offers over 115 kilometres of ski runs, with a range of slopes for all levels of skiers. 

It’s also a duty-free town, with plenty of shopping options.

6. Bansko, Bulgaria 

Bansko is a ski resort located in the Pirin Mountains of Bulgaria. It’s known for its excellent value for money, with affordable accommodation and lift tickets.

Bansko offers over 70 kilometres of ski runs, with a range of slopes for all levels of skiers. It’s also a charming town with a rich history and many cultural attractions.

7. Åre, Sweden

Åre is a ski resort in the Swedish Alps near the Norwegian border. It’s known for its stunning scenery and excellent ski conditions, with over 100 kilometres of ski runs. 

Åre is also famous for its après-ski scene, with plenty of bars and restaurants to enjoy after a long day on the slopes.

Conclusion

In conclusion, Europe has some of the best ski resorts in the world, with something to offer everyone. Whether you’re a beginner or an advanced skier, a European ski resort is perfect for you. From the charming villages of Austria to the stunning peaks of Switzerland, there is a ski resort in Europe to your liking.

A burglary in your own home can be a frightening and frustrating time for you and your family. Losing your possessions and goods is not the only negative impact of a burglary in your home. It can also leave you feeling vulnerable and frightened that it will happen again. But there are ways that you can reduce your chances of being burgled.

Don’t Store Your Spare Key Outside 

No matter how good you think, your hiding place is, don’t leave your spare keys outside your home. Burglars will be aware of all the common spots to hide keys around your home and may even be monitoring your home in the days leading up to a robbery. Leave your spare key with a friend or neighbour that you trust. Last year, Phonewatch released a figure of approx. 163 incidents where keys left in letterboxes have been discovered. 

Install an Alarm System

Having an alarm system in your home can act as a huge deterrent for burglars. If the thief has a choice between robbing a home with an alarm or without an alarm, they’ll usually opt for the latter. If your home in targeted despite having an alarm in place, the thief will have less time in your home to damage property or take anything. 

Help Your Neighbours

If you’re going on holiday or your house is vacant, ask your neighbour to monitor your property. You should also investigate whether there is a neighbourhood watch scheme in your local area. Many towns and villages around Ireland have set up a text alerts service which warn locals about suspicious activity in the area. 

Install Sensor Lights Outside Your Home

Sensor lights are a good way of alerting you to intruders in your garden or on your property. They can also startle and scare off thieves when they are activated. Having a well-lit area around your home can also be very beneficial if you have CCTV on your property, as it allows you to obtain a clearer picture of any night-time intruders. 

Purchase Home Insurance 

Having a Home Insurance policy in place is unlikely to prevent a break-in from occurring, but it will help you with the aftermath. Ensure that you include valuable contents such as engagement rings or sports equipment when arranging home insurance. You can get a home insurance quote with KennCo Insurance by clicking here.

Setup Automatic Light Timers

Automatic light timers are an inexpensive way to deter intruders from targeting your home. You can pick them up in most hardware stores and set them to turn on when you are not in your house. They are particularity useful when you are on holidays as an intruder will assume someone is in the house. 

Install CCTV Cameras 

Closed-Circuit Television (CCTV) cameras are a great way to protect your home from a burglary. They are not the cheapest way to protect your home; however, they are a huge deterrent for thieves. The price of CCTV cameras has reduced in recent years so it might be worth investigating how much they would cost to install in your home. There are plenty of options available when it comes to CCTV nowadays with many systems now having the ability to steam live footage directly to your mobile phone.  

If you’re purchasing home insurance for the first time or even just renewing, you may become confused by the various home insurance terms presented by different insurance companies. Below we have detailed some of the most common home insurance terms that you may come across. If you can’t find the answer you’re looking for, call a member of our team today for more information.  

The terms below are guidelines for what each term means. However, these may change depending on which insurance company you are with. For specific definitions regarding individual policies, please refer to your policy booklet. 

Accidental Damage 

Accidental Damage is where an accident occurs suddenly or unexpectedly. This usually refers to an event that is unlikely to happen again. It does not include wear and tear that may happen over time. 

Buildings

Buildings refer to your home and the fixtures and fittings. This can include walls, gates, patios and oil tanks once they are all at your home address. 

Excess

Home Insurance Excess is the amount of money you are responsible to pay for in the event of a claim. For example, if your excess is €300 and you have a claim of €10,000, you will receive €9,700 from your home insurance provider. The standard excess figure that you pay may change depending on which insurance provider you are with. 

Consequential loss

Consequential loss refers to any further loss that may occur as a result of loss or damage to your home. 

Schedule

Your home insurance schedule is part of your contract with your insurance company and includes details about the premises, the amount of cover, the period of insurance and any additional information relating to your policy. 

Standard Construction

This can change depending on your policy. However, it usually refers to a home that is built of brick, stone or concrete, and roofed with slates, tiles, concrete or metal, except that up to 20% of the total roof area may be felt or a similar permanent deck.

Unoccupied

This refers to a home that has not been lived in for 30 consecutive days. 

No Claims Bonus

This refers to the years you have held an insurance policy without making a claim. You receive a reduction in the cost of your premium based on the number of years you have been claiming free. If you are considering a home insurance policy with KennCo, you can get a 30% discount on your policy if you have three or more years of no claims. 

Ground Heave

Ground Heave refers to the upwards expansion of the ground, which causes damage to the buildings or their foundations.

Occupant

An occupant is a person whom you have permitted to stay in your home overnight.

 What you can take on board when travelling

With so many airlines, it’s easy to get confused about what the travel baggage allowance is. Between low cost airlines and traditional airlines, there are many differences when it comes to bag dimensions and weight limits.

We have taken a brief look at the most popular airlines around Europe to see exactly what size bag you are allowed – this might mean the difference between taking those extra ‘just-in-case’ pair of shoes or not!

RYANAIR

Ryanair is the connoisseur of economic travel but you don’t get a lot of baggage allowance. Only 20kg check in and 10kg take on. That’s 3kg less than most other airlines. They do however allow one small personal bag like a handbag/laptop/Duty Free/Baby Changing. Ryanair tend to be strict though so if you go over your allowance you’ll have to pay an additional fee of around €30 (one way, €60 return) so don’t get caught out!

AER LINGUS

Aer Lingus allow the standard 33kg baggage allowance (23kg check in and 10kg take on) but similarly to Ryanair there is a fee if you go over or if you would like to take additional bags (see table for further details). Aer Lingus charge per kilo extra so prices do vary. Like Ryanair and most popular airlines they will also allow a small personal bag handbag/laptop/duty free/baby changing

AIR FRANCE

BRITISH AIRWAYS

LUFTHANSA

IBERIA AIRLINES

Always pack Clever – roll as much as you can rather than flat pack – and if you are unsure about something don’t bring it – chances are you won’t actually need it. Remember you can always buy a replacement item if you forget to pack it like shampoo or sun cream. The most important items to remember are your passport, your money and you!

Finally never travel abroad without good comprehensive Travel Insurance, it could end up coming in really handy should anything happen to you on holiday. You will want to remember your trip with fond memories not ones of being stranded with no assistance. At KennCo we offer a great product at a competitive rate. 

Summer is just around the corner, and it’s the perfect time for Irish travellers to explore new destinations or revisit their favourite spots. Whether planning a weekend getaway or a longer trip, here are some travel tips for a fun and hassle-free summer vacation.

1. Book your flights and accommodation early

Summer is a popular travel season, so booking your flights and accommodation as early as possible is best to avoid disappointment. Flights and hotels can get more expensive the closer you get to your travel dates, so plan to get the best deals.

 By booking in advance, you can take advantage of early bird discounts and get the best deals on flights and hotels. This is especially important during peak travel seasons when prices are higher, and availability may be limited. 

It’s also important to note that last-minute bookings can be much more expensive, so planning and booking early can help you save significant money on your trip.

2. Be prepared for the weather

Ireland is known for its unpredictable weather, but if you travel to a warmer destination, pack appropriate clothing and sunscreen. We Irish are prone to get sunburned, so this is essential. The last thing you want is to get sunburnt on your first day and spend the rest of your trip in pain.

3. Get travel insurance

Travel insurance is essential for any trip, especially during the summer when there are more risks of flight cancellations, delays, or lost luggage. Medical cover is also crucial in case of illness or injury abroad.

We provide Travel Insurance for customers in Ireland. You can choose between multi-trip or single-trip cover depending on your needs and budget. 

4. Pack light

Summer is the perfect time to travel light, so leave the heavy winter clothes at home and pack light, breathable clothing. You want to avoid being weighed down by unnecessary baggage, and packing light means you’ll have more space for souvenirs to bring back to your family at home.

Before you start packing, list everything you need for your trip. This will help you to stay organised and avoid overpacking.

5. Stay hydrated

Summer heat can dehydrate you quickly, so drink plenty of water throughout the day. This is especially important if you’re travelling to a hot destination where the sun can be relentless. Especially on an active holiday, you may be using a lot of energy, so keeping on top of your water intake is essential.

6. Plan your activities in advance

If you’re travelling during the peak season, planning your activities is best to avoid long queues or disappointment. Book your tours, activities and tickets in advance to save time and money.

Do your research on things to do in the location you plan on going to, and book your tours and activities online. 

7. Learn some basic phrases

Learning some basic phrases in the local language is always a good idea if you’re travelling to a foreign country. This can help you navigate your way around and communicate with locals, making your trip more enjoyable.

Even a simple “thank you” is very appreciated by the locals so look up a few simple phrases before you head to your holiday destination.

8. Be respectful of local customs

Every country has its own customs and traditions, so respecting them when travelling is essential. This can include dress codes, eating habits or social norms, so research before you go and show respect to the local culture.

9. Keep your valuables safe

Summer is a busy travel season, so always keep your valuables safe. This includes your passport, cash and credit cards. Consider using a money belt or lockable bag to keep your valuables secure.

If you’re staying in a hotel, they will likely have a safe in which you can store all your valuables, and they will remain untouched until you open the safe again with a code you use. We always recommend using safes in hotels for peace of mind, and you can instead focus on having fun and topping up that tan!

11. Download offline maps

Download offline maps of your destination to avoid getting lost or incurring expensive roaming charges. This can also help you plan your itinerary and navigate the city more efficiently. It may be more relevant if you’re travelling outside of the EU. In the EU, you will still have a high data allowance to use Google Maps and navigate around the city. 

However, there may be times when your service drops, so we recommend downloading an offline map of your destination.

Enjoy yourself!

Finally, remember to relax and have fun! Summer is the perfect time to unwind and explore new destinations, so make the most of your trip and create lasting memories.

Conclusion

In conclusion, the summer season is a great time for Irish travellers to explore new destinations, relax, and create unforgettable memories. You can make the most of your summer travels by following these travel tips. 

Stay safe, have fun, and embrace new experiences as you embark on your summer adventure. Whether travelling solo, with friends, or with family, the summer is the perfect time to explore new cultures, try new foods, and make new friends. So, pack your bags, and prepare for an exciting summer journey!

If you’re a landlord in Ireland, you’ll be aware that there are numerous laws and regulations in place to protect both the tenant and the landlord. There has been a lot of discussion in recent times about rising rents and rent control across the country. Due to the lack of houses available, pressure has increased on the rental market. As a landlord, you are responsible for treating your tenant fairly. Sometimes, you may need to end a tenancy for one reason or another. So what are the correct procedures for terminating a tenancy agreement?

Reasons for Terminating a Tenancy

The rules regarding terminating a tenancy depend on how long your tenants have been renting your property. 

Tenants for less than 6 months

If a tenant has been renting your property for less than 6 months, you can ask them to leave without giving a reason. However, you must still provide them with written notice at least 28 days before you want to vacate your property. There are exceptions to the notice period if you’re new tenants are damaging your property or are involved in disruptive behaviour. 

Tenants for more than 6 months

If your tenant has lived in the property for more than six months, you are not entitled to terminate their tenancy unless they have breached their lease or obligations. This may include:

• If your tenant does not comply with the obligations set out by the lease
• If the property is no longer suited to the tenant’s needs
• If you’re planning on selling the property in the next three months
• If you or your immediate family are planning to move into the house
• If you are planning to make substantial refurbishments to the property
• If you plan to change the business use of the property

Procedures for Terminating a Tenancy 

If you do want to ask your tenants to vacate your property, some procedures must be followed. 

• You must inform your tenant in writing that you want them to leave.
• You or your agent are required to sign the letter of notice.
• Your notice letter should stipulate which date the tenant should vacate the property. 
• State your reason for ending their tenancy. 
• Inform the tenant that if they have any issues with the letter of notice, they must contact the Residential Tenancies Board RTB within 28 days of receiving the notice. 

Notice Periods for Termination of Tenancy 

Depending on how long a tenant has been living in your property, the notice period that a landlord is required to give differs. Below is a table showing how many days of notice you are required to provide. 

Notice Period Exceptions

There are some exceptions regarding the notice periods you must provide your tenants with. If the tenant breaches their obligations, you must only provide the tenant with 28 days notice. If the tenant is involved with anti-social behaviour or is damaging the property, the landlord must only provide the tenant with 7 days’ notice. 

If a tent has not paid its rent, the landlord must give them written notice of how much they owe and allow them 14 days to pay off any arrears. If the tenant does not pay the arrears within 14 days, the landlord is required to provide them with 28 days’ notice to vacate the property. 

If you’re renting out a property at the moment, why not give KennCo a call to discuss Landlord Insurance with a member of our team on 01 409 2600. 

Disclaimer: The above information is correct at the time of publication on 25 January 2017.

There are some fantastic car trips to choose from when hitting the road in Ireland. Whether you’re on holiday from abroad or you’re Irish and on staycation, there are plenty of places to explore around Ireland. Just hop in your car and go! 

Ireland is known for its beautiful green landscape and scenery, and if you’re in your car in Ireland, you don’t have to travel far to see it. But there’s much more to see. Ireland also has fantastic cliffs, beaches, vast limestone pavements and much more. Read on to start your discovery…

The Burren

The Burren is one of Ireland’s top tourist destinations and covers an area of about 250 sq metres. Car trips of the area cover over 80km and bring you through some of Ireland’s most scenic spots and beautiful towns. The word ‘Burren’ means ‘Rocky Place’ in the Irish language and is quite a fitting name due to the vast areas of uncovered limestone. 

The area also includes limestone pavement, woodland, lakes, springs, cliffs and a fen. But be careful where you thread! Despite The Burren making up just 1% of Ireland’s landscape, over 75% of our native plants are located there and are now protected by law. 

The Sally Gap

Situated in Co. Wicklow, The Sally Gap is mostly known for its spectacular views. The car trip around the area may require a little more focus as the trip includes winding roads that can become very narrow at times. Driving your car more slowly will also give you more time to take in the breathtaking views of mountain scenery, vast bog plains and lakes. 

Watch for deer scattered across the mountains as you make your way along the route. You’ll notice the landscape changing as you drive along to the route from brown bog lands to green firs and valleys. If you fancy getting out of your car for a walk in the area, continue on to Glendalough for various walkways around the lake. 

The Sally Gap is also worth visiting in autumn and winter as the leaves turn brown and orange. However, be sure to check the weather forecast before going there, as snow levels are usually much higher, which can make roads more hazardous. 

The Ring of Kerry

Car Trips to The Ring of Kerry have been a top destination for tourists for years. Not only will you see some of the best beaches in Ireland, but you can also enjoy fantastic landscapes, Iron Age Forts and monasteries. 

The roads around The Ring of Kerry can be windy and narrow, so you may need to have your wits about you if you’re behind the wheel. 

If you’re planning to spend a bit of time around the area, there are plenty of activities to keep you busy. Whether you’re looking for outdoor activities such as fishing, cycling or horse riding, or you want to sample the local cuisine, you’ll find what you’re looking for here. 

Causeway Coastal Route

You may need to split this car trip over a few days as the full route is over 190 Kilometres. The route extends from Belfast to Derry plenty of scenery along the way. As the name suggests, you’ll mostly be driving on coastal roads with long beaches, cliffs and waterfalls. 

Unlike a lot of Ireland’s coastal car trips, the roads are quite good and easy to manoeuvre around. The best day to head on this trip is a clear, bright day, as good visibility will allow you to take in the break-taking views of the Atlantic Ocean and cliffs. 

Along the route, you can also visit the world-famous Giant’s Causeway, which consists of thousands of basalt columns from an ancient volcanic eruption.