With burglaries rising during the festive season, experts are urging Britons to check whether their home contents insurance will cover Christmas presents. New smartphones, jewellery, bikes and other gifts can be attractive targets for thieves, making it essential to understand the terms and conditions of a policy.
According to insurance experts, over 80% of home insurance policies automatically increase contents cover over Christmas, often through a “seasonal increase” or “special events cover”. This typically raises the sum insured by a specific amount, such as £1,000 to £10,000, or by a percentage of the total contents cover, usually 10% or 20%. For example, Axa automatically adds £7,500 for 30 days before and after Christmas, while other insurers may offer shorter periods.
However, costly gifts such as the latest smartphones, laptops and bikes may be classified as “high-risk” or “valuable” items, with individual item limits varying widely between insurers. Data from Defaqto shows limits can range from £750 to £15,000, with £2,000 being the most common. If a present exceeds the specified limit, policyholders must contact their insurer to add it as a “specified item” to ensure cover.
Experts also warn that adding expensive gifts could push the total value of contents above the insured sum, potentially increasing premiums. Research from Quotezone indicates that 70% of people do not inform their insurer about expensive gifts under the Christmas tree. Posting photos of such presents on social media is also discouraged, as it may attract thieves and could be viewed by insurers as a “lack of care” for the items, potentially complicating claims.
With more visitors and pets in the home over the holiday period, accidental damage to valuable gifts is another risk. Accidental damage cover is often available as an optional add-on to contents insurance, typically costing around £25 according to data from Compare the Market.
