Can I get insurance coverage for my phone?
These days our cell phones are more than just a point of contact with friends and family, and are increasingly becoming a part of our livelihood. They offer directions, facts and figures, daily news, personal photographs, our favourite bands’ entire discography, and even apps to help us stay up to date with our insurance policies. So it seems only natural more and more people are searching for insurance coverage for their phones.
Who offers cell phone insurance?
Most of the big name carriers offer protection for any device linked to your telephone number covering mechanical and electrical failure after the manufacturer’s complimentary warranty has expired, accidental damage and loss or theft. More often than not this type of insurance can be purchased as an add on to your monthly cost when you sign up with a provider, or can be bought separately at a later date.
Are cell phones included in home, renters or condo insurance?
Are there any cell phone insurance tips?
If you discover that your home insurance does include your cell phone, great news, but be aware that there are some red flags to watch out for. First and foremost, if you do decide to claim on your current home insurance, you will have to pay the excess agreed upon with your insurer. Whether or not this is worth it depends on the value of your cell phone, and with the price of new technology on the rise, you may well see this as a viable option.
Alternatively, enter into a discussion with your insurer and assess their flexibility when it comes to lowering your excess. Claiming on your house insurance also runs the risk of increasing your premium as a result of the claim- so if you’re renowned for being clumsy or forgetful, maybe consider another route.
Are there any other alternatives?
If cell phone provider and house, rental or condo insurance doesn’t seem right for you; a final alternative sees the use of specialist gadget websites that offer protection for individual electrical items, including cell phones.
Long story short, if you’re someone who is likely to drop your phone in the kitchen, accidentally leave it in your pocket before throwing your jeans in the laundry or leave it on a bus, then chances are phone insurance is probably for you. Do some research, know your options and good luck!