After your neighbour’s home was broken into and their valuables were stolen, you ask yourself what you can do to prevent this sort of thing from happening to you. You also wonder if you’re well covered for theft and up to how much?

Here are some answers to those legitimate questions …

How much coverage do I have for my personal property?

Your home insurance coverage includes protection for your personal property in case of theft, up to the amount of the insurance stated in your policy. However, there are special limits for certain items, such as jewellery, furs, bicycles, etc. Here are some examples:

• You own about one hundred DVDs and CDs. The limitation of insurance coverage for possessions like these can range from $1 000 to $2 000*.
• The value of your stamp or monies collection has increased over the years but the maximum reimbursement amount for these items generally range from $1 000 to $2 000*.

While the coverage limitations specified in the above-mentioned situations generally apply to most home insurance policies, some insurance contracts may offer a higher coverage. Speak to your broker or insurance agent to review the coverage limits in your policy, in the event of theft, and ask if there are ways to increase coverage for your most valued possessions.

How to prevent Break-ins

Learn how to make your home less desirable to would-be thieves by taking some preventative steps so you can feel more secure.

• Install an alarm system connected to a monitoring centre.
• Lock all your doors and windows every time you leave the house.
• Leave the radio playing and some lights turned on when you leave.
• Avoid leaving your house key under a mat, in a planter, or in the mailbox. Thieves know all the hiding places.
• Have adequate exterior lighting.
• Store away all ladders so that burglars don’t have access to the second floor.
• Have your valuables etched (a proven deterrent as it might make them harder to sell)
• Try to keep valuable jewellery in a bank safety deposit box.
• Avoid leaving large amounts of cash inside your home.

By choosing the right amount of coverage for your personal property and taking measures to prevent theft, you can enjoy peace of mind knowing that you’re well protected.

Advice from belairdirect and Intact Insurance
Not all insurers offer the same coverage

*Source : site infoinsurance.ca