We’ve all got certain items that we’d like to keep safe, hidden away from any wannabe thieves – but keeping our valuables safe is often a job we put to the bottom of our to-do lists. However, some simple steps could make sure you’re precious valuables are fully protected (and covered).
So regardless of whether your partner’s just bought you a gorgeous diamond ring from F. Hinds or you’re trying to protect a family heirloom, here are some top tips on keeping things safe in your home:
Check Your Insurance Policy
Firstly, if you’ve got some high-value items, you’ll need to make sure you’ve got the right insurance policy in place. This means going through the policy wording with a fine-tooth comb to make sure you understand exactly what is and isn’t covered.
When there’s an item that’s worth more than the policy’s ‘single item limit’, it’s crucial you speak to your insurance provider to add these as ‘specified’ items. This may put your premium up but at least you’ll have peace of mind that the full value of your items is covered.
Have Your Items Valued
Every now and again it’s worth having expensive items valued, particularly if you’ve got works of art, antiques, a collection of watches or jewellery, for example. Have them valued every few years to make sure the amount on your insurance policy is accurate. And always keep any receipts or valuation certificates safe, too, scanning them so you have a digital copy just in case.
Photo by Tiko Giorgadze on Unsplash
Store Items Safely
When it comes to keeping valuables in your home, it’s so important not to have them on display in obvious areas, e.g. windowsills, as this is prime advertising space for would-be burglars.
Equally, those ‘safe places’ like in bedside drawers or under the bed are prime targets for thieves.
So as well as investing in security lighting, a burglar alarm and sturdy locks, take some added precautions by getting a lockable cabinet or safe that you can install in your home. This provides those heirlooms and expensive items of jewellery with even more protection.
And if you’re still worried about how safe very expensive items are, you may want to consider keeping them in a vault in the bank, especially if you rarely use them.
It’s Not Just About Jewellery
While jewellery and antique pieces are the obvious valuable items you’ll want to protect, don’t forget to make sure any hi-tech gadgets you’ve got are covered too, especially in travel insurance policies.
By putting all of these simple measures in place, your valuables will be almost as safe as they would be in Fort Knox (well, not quite, but you catch our drift!).
Disclosure: This is a collaborative post.