High-value items and home insurance
Why standard contents cover may not be enough
Most home insurance policies impose a single-article limit — typically between £1,500 and £2,500 — on any individual item. If you own items worth more than this limit, they may only be paid up to the limit in the event of a claim, regardless of their true value. To be properly covered, these items must be listed (or “specified”) separately on the policy.
Common high-value items to consider
- Engagement rings, wedding rings, and other high-value jewellery
- Watches (especially luxury or vintage)
- Fine art, antiques, and collectibles
- High-value bicycles (road, mountain, or electric bikes)
- Professional camera equipment and lenses
- Specialist musical instruments
- Vintage wine or whisky collections
- Designer clothing or accessories
How to specify items on your policy
Contact your insurer or broker to request that high-value items be added as specified items on your policy. You will typically need to provide: a description of the item; its estimated value; and sometimes a formal valuation or purchase receipt. Specified items are covered up to their stated value.
Valuation
For unique or valuable items, consider getting a formal appraisal from an accredited valuer. Jewellery should be revalued periodically as market values change. Keep valuations, receipts, photographs, and serial numbers in a safe place away from the home.
Cover away from home
Check whether your policy covers specified items outside the home — for example, jewellery worn when travelling, or a bike locked outside. Some policies include this; others require a separate personal possessions extension.
Frequently asked questions
Most home contents policies impose a maximum payout per individual item — commonly £1,500 to £2,500. Items worth more than this limit will only be paid up to the limit unless they are specified separately on the policy.
Items that commonly need to be specified include: engagement rings and high-value jewellery; fine art and antiques; specialist or professional camera equipment; high-value bicycles; vintage wine collections; specialist musical instruments; and valuable watches.
For expensive or unique items, many insurers require a formal valuation from an accredited valuer. This is often required for jewellery, art, and antiques. A purchase receipt may be sufficient for recently bought items.
Standard contents policies may cover specified items away from home up to their specified value, but terms vary. Some policies exclude certain items outside the home, and some require an additional 'personal possessions' add-on.
Related calculators
Disclaimer
This is a simplified estimate based on the assumptions shown above. It isn't a quote, and a real insurer may arrive at a different figure. Use it as a starting point, then check the details with your insurer or adviser.