Everything we own is important to us, however, household contents insurance describes valuables very specifically and you need to know to make sure that you're properly covered.
What are valuables according to household contents insurance?
In the policy, valuables are classed as;
cash (including money loaded on cards or other data carriers);
documents - these include savings books and other financial securities;
jewelry - including precious stones, pearls, stamps, coins, medals and all items made of gold or platinum;
artworks - including furs, hand-knotted carpets, tapestries
antiques - these are objects that are more than 100 years old, with the exception of furniture.
How does household contents insurance cover valuables?
The coverage limits for valuables depend on whether you have basic or extended household contents insurance and whether the valuables are kept in a certified safe.
How much are they covered up to?
There are limits to the coverage amount, and this will depend on whether you take out the basic or extended cover and whether your belongings are in a safe*.
| Basic cover | Extended cover |
Valuables (in a safe)Jewelry, antiques, cash, precious stones, pearls, stamps, coins, medals, artworks, furs, and all items made of gold or platinum | 20% of the insured sum | 30% of the insured sum |
Valuables (not in a safe)Jewelry, antiques, cash, precious stones, pearls, stamps, coins, medals, artworks, furs, and all items made of gold or platinum | 20% of the insured sum (maximum €25,000) | 30% of the insured sum (maximum €25,000) |
Cash (not in a safe) | €1,500 | €1,500 |
Documents (not in a safe) | Up to 20% of the insured sum (maximum €3000) | Up to 30% of the insured sum (maximum €5000) |
Valuables in bank safe deposits | 5% of the Insured sum | 30% of the insured sum (maximum €15,000) |
Here's an example:
In the event of a burglary, and you have these valuables in your home:
• 2,500 EUR in cash
• 8,000 EUR worth of jewelry
• 4,000 EUR worth of artworks and antiques
If you have basic coverage and your insured sum is 50,000 EUR, you would be reimbursed a maximum of 20% of your insured sum, which is 10,000 EUR.
What events does household contents insurance cover for valuables?
Household contents insurance protects valuables against specific events such as fire, burglary, robbery, water damage, storm, and hail.
What should I do if I have valuables that exceed household contents insurance limits or need broader coverage?
If your valuables are worth more or you want coverage for scenarios beyond the named insured events, you should consider specialized insurance policies designed for high-value items.
* Safes are security containers that have been approved by VdS Schadenverhütung GmbH or by an equally qualified testing body.
Free-standing safes should have a minimum weight of 200 kg. If they weigh less, they must be professionally anchored in accordance with the manufacturer's instructions or flush-mounted on the wall or floor.