How can you protect your valuables?
Over the years, the personal belongings we value vary - from the very first (and enormous) plasma televisions, libraries of CD’s, iPhones, videogame systems, jewelry, and high-end computers - the valuables we invest in change.
Not only do we value our personal belongings, but thieves do too. Ensuring you have a record of the valuables you own is always important for insurance purposes. This is especially true for distinct, high-value pieces in your home.
What can you do to protect your personal possessions before a loss occurs?
- Keep boxes, dust bags, and receipts after purchasing your valuables.
- A picture is worth a thousand words - keep photos of your belongings or a video of your closet, bag, and shoe collection. A cloud-based storage system can help with remote access if needed.
- Speak to your insurance representative about scheduling your luxury goods on your home insurance policy.
- There has been a notable increase in property break-ins and thefts from vehicles – try not to leave your valuables in the car. If it must be in your vehicle, keep your valuables hidden from view.
- Try not to centralize and store all personal items in a single location – storing all your valuable items in one centralized location makes it easy for thieves to “grab and go.”
- When out and about with your luxury items, be mindful to keep the items within eyesight and not in an area that is unsecured.
- If it’s too good to be true, it probably is – if someone offers you a high-end item for a cost well below market, it could be stolen, counterfeit and/or defective.
Unfortunately, we can lose items when we least expect it; however, “an ounce of prevention is worth a pound a cure.” Using tips, such as the above, will help ensure your personal valuables are protected.
