In today’s heavily technology-driven world, gadgets are as common as the mobile phone. Gadgets can include any device which performs functions for computing, communicating and entertaining. These devices can be as cheap as tens of pounds to as expensive as thousands of pounds and can include:
- Laptops tablets and PDAs
- Mp3 players and IPods
- Mobile and smart phones
- Digital and video cameras
- Handheld games consoles (PSP, Nintendo DS)
- Satellite navigation systems
- Headphones
- Bluetooth headsets
- In-car computers
The volume, variety and value of gadgets currently available is now higher than ever before which is why it is so important to cover these items with insurance.
What Types Of Gadget Insurance Are There?
A common assumption is that your gadgets will be covered under your home contents insurance. Whilst this may be the case for some, there are many limitations so if you are in doubt contact your insurance provider or read the terms and conditions carefully to see if you are protected.
If you are not covered on your home insurance, there is a vast selection of insurers to buy gadget protection from offering many different policy types to cover an array of circumstances and needs.
Most insurers will provide cover for all types of gadgets but may not necessarily cover all your gadgets on one policy- some will protect one gadget, others can include up to five gadgets on one policy.
Gadget insurance can be most advantageous for students and those who frequently travel with their gadgets as the likelihood of an accident or theft will be higher for these people. Also gadget insurance can be very flexible regarding payment and contract length. Some insurers offer short and long-term contracts with the chance to pay on a weekly, monthly and annual basis.
What Can Be Covered In Gadget Insurance?
As many gadgets are so technologically advanced and valuable, most insurance policies will cover more than the standard theft, loss and accidental damage. Some providers’ policies can include any or all of the following:
- Extended warranty cover
- Repair and replacement service (24/48hr basis)
- Liquid damage cover
- Digital downloads cover
- Protection from unauthorised calls made if phone is stolen
- Malicious damage
- Family cover
- Worldwide cover
- Accessories cover
Be Careful
Brand new gadgets such as the latest IPhone or laptop may not be covered in general gadget insurance and may need specialist protection and/or an increased monthly fee. Independent insurance policies can often provide more protection and benefits than product-specific insurance offered when you purchase a gadget.
General Advice
Shop around- Good advice for all types of insurance; conduct plenty of research before you decide on a policy. Use online comparison websites to find what you can get for your money and how much you could save.
Keep receipts- Insurers will want a copy of the gadgets receipts so make sure you keep hold of them.
Multi-gadget insurance- Like multi-car insurance, some insurers work on the basis that the more gadgets you insure on one policy the cheaper it can be.
