Money Mail reported back in November that a lady had her jewellery stolen most of her items dating back to the 1940s. However, Saga refused to pay anything towards the stolen jewellery. The small print in her policy insists that if a claim needs to be made, there needs to be receipts for those items, and photographs too if there is no written proof of value.
Money Mail investigated this further finding that many insurers are the same, and in fact they state that there must be some evidence of what the item is. A photograph, receipt, credit card slip, and of course the best of all, a written appraisal by a jeweller (this is a 100% guarantee you will be paid as valued).
The Association of British Insurers are now advising owners of vintage and antique jewellery to at least take a photograph of their items, and valuation by a professional if they can. Failure to observe these rules could see any claim rejected.
The lady lost earrings, watches, bracelets and a pendant. Saga pointed out their small print. ” we ask that you need to give evidence to support any claim such as estimates, photographs or invoices’.
Not all insurers insist on this ruling, but you should check carefully, and even if they do not insist, surely it is only prudent to ensure you have something even if just a photograph.
If you have been given jewellery for Christmas, please ensure you keep proof of its worth. If you have jewellery that is not valued, at least take a photograph and keep safe, but the most prudent will ask their local jewellery to value their items.
We can help in these matters, and can even provide you with a online appraisal if you can send us some photographs and some idea of value, even if your receipt is 20 years old, we can work out a current value for you and it will not cost you too much.
Contact our valuer 01373 462090 or chart1820@gmail.com
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