Today's gamer tends to invest a lot of money in equipment. Computer gaming systems of all types can be very valuable. Having insurance protection on these investments is usually a good idea.
Home insurance policies can help. However, they are often only effective up to a certain point. You should customize the plan to provide adequate coverage for all your needs. This includes reimbursement should theft occur. There are several steps you can take to do just that.
Estimate What Your Gaming Equipment Is Worth
Your home insurance policy protects most types of assets within the home. It is important to outline what you own on your policy. Be sure your agent knows about your gaming systems - especially if those systems have a high value.
Your first goal is to estimate the worth of these items. Add up the investment you would have to make now to replace the items you own. This is replacement cost coverage. Most gamers will want to replace their items if they're lost to theft.
How Much Does Your Home Insurance Policy Cover?
Next, take a look at your existing home insurance policy. The policy will often include a per item limit. This is the most it will pay per item lost in a theft.
From this information, you can make a decision about whether or not you need more coverage. Let's say you own a $1,500 computer gaming system. If your policy only covers up to $1,000 per item, and you have a $1,000 deductible, you will not receive anything from a claim. You can adjust the deductible. However, you still may not have enough coverage. Therefore, you should increase your limits so that your actual payouts from insurance cover - or at least come close to - the cost of replacing your items.
Should You Add a Rider to Your Policy?
If you own items of high value, adding a special insurance policy onto your existing home insurance plan can sometimes cover these items. This special policy is called a rider. A rider provides specific coverage for specific items you outline. Depending on the value of your gaming systems, you may need to use a rider to protect them.
Your home insurance agent needs to know about your high valued items. This includes all computer gaming components you have of high value. Modify your policy to include coverage for these items.
Do not assume the policy will offer enough protection to you. Some may, depending on the per item coverage provided. But if they don't, a rider can come in handy.
If you have specific questions about covering your gaming equipment, be sure to contact Affordable Insurance Group today. We're happy to help!