Buying Something Valuable? 5 Things to Do Next

Keep the paperwork

When you’re purchasing a valuable item, like a piece of jewellery, a new painting or sculpture, or a bottle of fine wine, make sure you keep the receipt and any notes that include when the item was purchased and an accurate description of the item. Having that paperwork will make it much easier to get future appraisals.

Talk with your insurance broker

Let your insurance broker know that you now own a new valuable item and ask him or her what type of documentation is required for you to insure the piece.

Ask about your coverage

Your insurance broker can tell you how much coverage is included with your homeowner’s or renter’s insurance policy, and what types of losses are covered. Many standard homeowner’s or contents insurance policies provide minimum amounts of coverage, after a deductible is met. Many of these policies don’t provide coverage for items you lose.

Get the protection you need

If you don’t have it already, you may want to purchase a policy that specifically covers your valuables. The right policy could protect your new item and your other collectibles from a wide variety of losses, including theft, breakage, and “miscellaneous disappearance” (i.e. you lost it).

Do what you can to keep it safe

If possible, store your valuable item in a secure location such as a safe deposit box or special storage facility. Then, let your insurer know, because there may be “in vault” coverage that will allow you to pay less for the protection you need.