Buying something valuable? 5 things to do next

If you’re planning to add a new piece of jewelry, fine art, wine, or another type of collectible to your home, here are a few things you’ll want to do next.

When you’re purchasing a valuable item, like a piece of jewelry, a new painting or sculpture, or a bottle of fine wine, make sure you keep the receipt and any notes that include when the item was purchased and an accurate description of the item. Having that paperwork will make it much easier to get future appraisals.

Let your insurance agent or broker know that you now own a new valuable item and ask him or her what type of documentation is required for you to insure the piece.

Your insurance agent or broker can tell you how much coverage is included with your homeowner’s or renter’s insurance policy, and what types of losses are covered. Many standard homeowner’s and renter’s policies provide minimum amounts of coverage, after a deductible is met. Many of these policies don’t provide coverage for items you lose.

If you don’t have it already, you may want to purchase a policy that specifically covers your valuables. The right policy could protect your new item and your other collectibles from a wide variety of losses, including theft, breakage, and “miscellaneous disappearance” (i.e. you lost it).

If possible, store your valuable item in a secure location such as a safe deposit box or special storage facility. Then, let your insurer know, because there may be “in vault” coverage that will allow you to pay less for the protection you need.