Sharon Paterson, CEO at Infiniti Insurance Limited

Before planning your summer holiday and activities this festive season, take the time to review your personal insurance to ensure that your valuables, such as phones, laptops, smartwatches, jewellery, appliances, cameras, and camping equipment, are insured for accidental damage or loss.

“Life changes with the seasons, from winter sports to summer road trips and festive season holidays. However, criminals are always ahead in planning to target their next unsuspecting victim. If your insurance policy stays the same, you might be exposed to new risks or paying for coverage you don't need,” says Sharon Paterson, CEO at Infiniti Insurance Limited.

“You must check that all the items you’re travelling with are insured under the All Risks section of your personal policy. It’s important to insure all items that you take away with you,” she adds.

She says the clients must also ensure that their contents are adequately insured for the correct value in case you have a burglary at home while you are enjoying the beach “This means the content should be insured for the estimated replacement cost, which is the cost of buying a similar new item.”

Insurers may ask you to specify certain items, such as jewellery, artworks and electronics, on the policy and may request a valuation certificate to ascertain their worth. The value of your belongings is another key factor that determines the premiums you will pay.

Clients must take note of the following factors to ensure that they don’t become the victims, and in case of a loss, their belongings are fully covered on their home content insurance.

Be extra vigilant

Never leave doors unlocked and windows open and always be vigilant in your surroundings. You do not want to come back from the beach to find your valuables, cash and bank cards stolen. Burglars often target holiday chalets while you’re out to have fun. Don’t advertise to the world that you will be away.  Be careful what you put on social media. You don’t know who your “friends” friends are.

Burglaries are seldom random. You and your home can be targeted if it is known that you are away. Also be careful of posting lovely holiday photos on social media. The fewer people who know when you are away and the more lived-in your home looks, the less likely you are to be a target.

Consult broker

It is important to have a broker to help you plan your personal insurance to ensure that you have appropriate protection as your activities and risks change throughout the year. Plan your shopping trips and inform your broker before you purchase valuable gifts so that you know when you leave the store, your items are insured, and you can enjoy your holiday without worries, knowing you have protection. Don't hesitate to ask your insurer or broker any questions you may have about the policy.

Get multiple quotes and read policy wording

Don't accept the first quote you receive. Shop around and compare quotes from multiple insurers to find the best cover that you can afford. Read the policy wording to understand the coverage, exclusions, and limitations. Paterson emphasises the importance of thoroughly reading and understanding your insurance policy. "Your insurance policy is the blueprint that outlines what is and isn't covered in the event of a burglary or theft. Familiarise yourself with its terms to avoid any unpleasant surprises,” she concludes.