Go.Compare research found 67% of UK homeowners have never accurately valued their belongings, leaving many at risk of costly underinsurance when making a claim
Nearly half of Britons depend on a ‘rough guess’ when it comes to insuring the contents of their home. Research discovered 67% have never properly valued items such as devices, bikes or jewellery – despite estimating their belongings are worth an average of £46,422.94.
Just 17% said they carefully calculate the value of their possessions before completing their policy. The survey of 2,000 adults showed that almost a quarter (23%) haven’t reviewed their insurance policy in the past couple of years, while 31% haven’t updated their cover, despite making significant purchases within the last three years.
Cost-of-living pressures also seem to be influencing decisions, with 14% admitting they’ve lowered their level of cover to reduce costs. However, 41% didn’t realise that underinsuring home contents could result in a reduced payout if they need to make a claim.
The research was commissioned by Go.Compare ahead of the bank holiday and half-term, as it cautioned how expensive it can be to under- or overestimate the value of home contents.
Nathan Blackler, home insurance expert for the brand, said: “Spending a bit of time accurately assessing your contents helps ensure you have the right level of cover in place, so you’re properly protected without overpaying.
“It also means when homes are left empty for longer periods of time, homeowners can feel reassured – something that will be happening for many people across the country soon with school holidays right around the corner, and summer travel season about to ramp up.”
More than seven in 10 are unsure if their current policy includes an ‘average clause’ – where payouts are reduced if the holder is underinsured. More than half would also struggle to provide proof of ownership for their belongings, with 27% in doubt of ever being able to replace everything if they were to lose it.
What’s more, 26% would depend on a credit card to replace items, 55% would tap into their savings, and 14% said they would approach family or friends.
Laptops or tablets, engagement or wedding rings, and bikes were the leading high-value items that are being overlooked in policies. Meanwhile curtains and blinds, flooring and clothes were identified as the most frequently forgotten items to include on home insurance policies.
Nathan added: “Whether it’s going abroad or taking a staycation in the UK, homes can still be vulnerable when left unattended, from burglaries and stolen valuables to water leaks causing serious damage before they’re discovered.
“That’s why it’s so important to make sure you know what your belongings are really worth and that your insurance cover accurately reflects what you own before you go away.
“The last thing anyone wants is to come home from a holiday and discover they’re facing a major financial hit that isn’t fully covered.”
NATHAN’S THREE TOP TIPS FOR INSURING YOUR HOME CONTENTS
- Don’t rely on guesswork – Take the time to work out an accurate value helps you get the right cover at the right price.
- Review your cover regularly – Contents values can change over time so regular reviews can help make sure your policy keeps pace
- Use tools to get it right – Using a home contents calculator can help you build a more accurate estimate.
