When Should a Gift Be Insured?

The joy of giving is one of the best parts of the holiday season. Whether it’s a sparkling piece of jewelry, the latest tech gadget, or a thrilling experience, gifts often carry both sentimental and monetary value. But what happens if a gift is lost, stolen, or damaged? That’s where insurance comes in.

Here’s a guide to help you decide when insuring a gift is a smart move—and how to protect your thoughtful presents.

High-Value Gifts

Some gifts come with a hefty price tag, making them more than just a special surprise.

Examples: Jewelry, luxury watches, fine art, antiques, or collectibles.
Why Insure? High-value items are costly to replace and can be vulnerable to theft, loss, or damage. Many homeowner’s or renter’s insurance policies offer options to add these to your coverage, or you can purchase a personal articles policy for extra protection.

Electronics and Gadgets

Tech gifts are always a hit, but their portability often makes them easy to damage or lose.

Examples: Smartphones, laptops, tablets, cameras, or gaming systems.
Why Insure? Accidental drops, spills, or theft can turn an exciting gift into a headache.

Vehicles and Recreational Equipment

Big-ticket gifts often need coverage before they’re even used.

Examples: Cars, motorcycles, boats, ATVs, or other recreational vehicles.
Why Insure? These gifts require liability and damage insurance for legal and financial protection. Ensure proper coverage is in place before hitting the road or water.

Sentimental or Irreplaceable Gifts

Some gifts are priceless in terms of sentiment, but that doesn’t mean you can’t insure their value.

Examples: Heirloom jewelry, custom-made items, or one-of-a-kind pieces.
Why Insure? While insurance can’t replace the emotional value, it can help cover the monetary cost if something happens. Be sure to get an appraisal for accurate coverage.

How to Protect Your Gifts

Check Your Current Policies: Many homeowner’s or renter’s policies offer limited coverage for high-value items. Review your policy to see what’s included.
Consider a Rider or Endorsement: Add specific items to your policy for increased protection.
Standalone Policies: For unique or expensive items, a dedicated policy may be a better fit.
Keep Documentation: Save receipts, appraisals, or any certificates of authenticity to simplify the claims process if needed.

Peace of Mind for the Holidays
Protecting gifts with the right insurance coverage ensures they bring joy, not stress. If you’re unsure about whether a gift needs coverage, Sea Mountain Insurance is here to help. Contact us to explore your options and give with confidence this holiday season.