What is valuables insurance?

A valuables insurance policy is supplementary cover for valuable items that are often not or only partly insured under the contents or fire policy. Think of jewelry, watches, art, antiques, collections and musical instruments. The cover is generally on an all‑risks basis, with specific conditions per object type and sometimes off‑premises or worldwide cover. For owners with a growing collection or a few high‑value pieces, this is an efficient way to create financial certainty in the event of theft, damage or loss. This supplementary cover usually connects to your home insurance (private residence).

What is covered?

Exact coverage varies by policy, but generally includes:

• Damage due to theft and burglary, including the requirement for signs of forced entry according to the policy conditions
• Accidental damage, for example dropping or impact
• Fire, smoke and extinguishing water
• Loss or disappearance, depending on the chosen module
• Optional: off‑premises or worldwide cover for portable objects such as jewelry

Do you have a (growing) art collection? Consider our Art insurance for specialized cover and expertise.

What is not covered?

Common exclusions include:

• Wear and tear, aging and pre‑existing damage
• Intent, gross negligence or lack of required security
• Damage during cleaning, maintenance or improper repair
• Rental or professional use without prior notification
• Exceptional events excluded in the policy terms

Need to report damage to valuables? Do it quickly and easily via Report a claim.

What should you look out for when taking out a policy?

• Appraisal and valuation — Have value and provenance demonstrably recorded via purchase documents or a recognized appraisal report. This speeds up claims handling and prevents disputes.
• Maximums per object and in total — Check limits per item and per category, and align them with your actual values.
• Off‑premises and worldwide cover — Especially for portable pieces such as jewelry or watches.
• Deductible and basis of settlement — New‑for‑old, agreed value guarantee or market value makes a difference to the payout.
• Security requirements — Alarm system, safe or certificates may be mandatory at higher values.
• Documentation and management — Record photos, serial numbers and storage locations, and update them periodically.

Valuation and underinsurance

Underinsurance leads to a proportionally lower payout in the event of a claim. Use a correct valuation. In Belgium, contents are often assessed using evaluation grids, supplemented with a specific risk description for valuables. If you buy or inherit new valuable pieces, or renovate your home, you should adjust the policy. Hillewaere guides you with appraisal, prevention and an appropriate sum insured so your cover grows with your collection.

Frequently asked questions

What is a standalone valuables insurance policy?

A standalone valuables insurance policy is a separate add‑on policy or module on top of your fire or contents insurance. At Hillewaere this is called Waardevolle Voorwerpen, with customization per object type and options for off‑premises or worldwide cover.

Does the valuables insurance cover damage off‑premises and worldwide?

It can, but it depends on the chosen cover. For portable items such as jewelry, off‑premises and possibly worldwide cover is strongly recommended. Your adviser tailors the scope to your use and travel habits.

Find more answers in our Frequently asked questions.

Want to be sure your collection is optimally insured? Make an appointment with a Hillewaere expert in Flanders or Brussels for personal advice and a tailored proposal.