W Leiden, Nederland, is het belangrijk om waardevolle bezittingen zoals sieraden en kunstvoorwerpen goed te verzekeren. Een kostbaarhedenverzekering biedt bescherming tegen diefstal, verlies of beschadiging van deze kostbare items. In dit artikel zullen we de mogelijkheden en voorwaarden van zo'n verzekering voor Leidse inwoners nader bekijken.
Insurance for Valuables: Insuring Jewelry and Valuable ItemsInsurance for valuables: insuring jewelry and valuable items
Jewelry, watches, works of art, or antiques: valuables are often emotionally and financially valuable. But what if they are stolen, lost, or damaged? A standard home contents insurance policy usually does not or only partially covers these items. A valuable items insurance policy provides a solution. In this article, we explain everything about this insurance: what it is, when you need it, and how to arrange it. This way, you know exactly how to protect your valuable possessions.
What is valuable items insurance?
Valuable items insurance is additional coverage on top of your home contents insurance. It specifically focuses on expensive and valuable objects, such as jewelry, watches, art, musical instruments, or collectibles. Unlike a regular home contents insurance policy, which often has a maximum of €5,000 to €10,000 for 'jewellery and valuables' (cash and valuables), this insurance offers higher amounts and broader protection.
Important features:
- Worldwide coverage: Often insured during travel, unlike basic home contents insurance.
- Out-of-home coverage: Protection when you wear or take your jewelry with you.
- New-for-old principle: Payout based on the current replacement value, not the purchase price.
Without this insurance, you risk a significant financial loss in case of theft or loss. For example: a wedding ring worth €10,000 may only be partially reimbursed with a standard policy.
When do you need valuable items insurance?
Consider this insurance if you have valuable items that:
- Are worth more than the maximum of your home contents insurance.
- You often wear or take with you (e.g., jewelry on vacation).
- Have emotional value, such as heirlooms.
How to apply for valuable items insurance? Step-by-step plan
Follow these practical steps to insure your valuables properly:
1. Inventory your possessions
Make a list of all valuable items. Take photos of them from all sides and keep receipts or invoices. Use an app or spreadsheet for overview.
2. Get appraised
For more expensive items (often from €2,500), an appraisal report is required. Go to a recognized appraiser (e.g., via the Association of Jewelry Appraisers or NBV). Costs: €50-€200 per item. The report must be recent (max. 3-5 years old) and state the day value or replacement value.
3. Check your current policy
Review your home contents insurance. What does it already cover? Ask your insurer for a statement of your current conditions.
4. Compare and choose a policy
Look for additional coverage such as 'all-risk' (for damage) or 'travel coverage'. Pay attention to premium, deductible, and conditions. Premium depends on the total insured sum (e.g., €20,000-€100,000) and is often 0.5-2% of that per year.
5. Take out the insurance
Submit your appraisal reports and list to the insurer. The policy is added to your home contents insurance. Keep everything digitally and physically.
Concrete tip: Start small. Insure your most expensive jewelry first and expand.What does valuable items insurance cover exactly?
Good policies cover:
- Theft: Also outside the home, provided with violence or forced eviction.
- Loss or disappearance: For example, a ring that slips off while swimming.
- Damage: Scratches, breaks, or water damage (with all-risk).
- Vandalism and disasters: Fire, storm, or flooding.
- Own fault (e.g., forgetting a lock).
- War or nuclear disasters.
- Underwater activities without permission.
- Outdated appraisals.
Always check the policy conditions. Some insurers only cover art at home.
Important tips for optimal protection
- Store safely: Use a safe or safe deposit box at the bank for unworn items. Note this in your policy.
- Wear wisely: Remove jewelry during high-risk activities (sports, parties).
- Keep appraisals up-to-date: Have re-appraisals every 3 years, especially if the value increases.
- In case of damage: act quickly
1. Report immediately to the police.
2. Report within 2-8 days to the insurer with photos and appraisal.
3. Keep damaged items until settlement.
Payout often follows within weeks.
- Family heirlooms: These are often uninsured. Have them appraised separately.
Conclusion: protect what is dear to you
Valuable items insurance provides peace of mind: your valuable items are safe, wherever you are. It costs a few hundred euros per year but prevents distress in case of loss. Start today with inventorying and appraising – better safe than sorry. If in doubt, consult the website of the Financial Market Authority (AFM) or an independent advisor for personal advice. This way, you can enjoy your jewelry and heirlooms carefree.