Personal possessions insurance

What's personal possessions insurance?

It's insurance coverage for your belongings when you take them outside the home.

It's sometimes included as standard on your house insurance policy, but more often it has to be added as an optional extra at additional cost.

Personal possessions cover protects against theft, loss and accidental damage.

It includes cover for things like:

• Phones
• Laptops
• Jewellery
• Keys
• Cash
• Tablets
• Cameras
• Wallets and purses

Any items over £1,000 should be listed separately on your policy - items like your laptop, bicycle or expensive jewellery.

What’s not covered away from home?

Common exclusions from personal possessions insurance include:

• Wear and tear to your goods
• Possessions that are left unattended
• Pets or other animals
• Tools
• Any business-related possessions
• Camping equipment
• Goods left in an unlocked car, or left in plain view in a locked vehicle
• Items that you’ve lent to a friend or family member

You might already have personal possessions cover through your bank account, credit card or travel insurance

Are there any other options for cover away from home?

You might already have personal possessions cover through your bank account, credit card or travel insurance.

Check the terms carefully to see whether they offer the right amount of cover for you.

A dedicated gadget insurance policy might also suit you better for things like your phone, tablet or laptop.

Avoid doubling up on insurance as this can complicate claims.

Making a claim

To claim on your personal possessions cover, give your insurer a call and let them know what has happened.

Give them as much information as possible and gather as much evidence as you can - that’s receipts for items and photos of any damage caused.

You’ll need to have your policy number to hand and be prepared to pay your excess too.

.