Old gear and insurance

symbolofmylife

Hey guys,

Here's a question that I've been thinking about recently, just out of curiosity.

Most (if not nowadays, all) insurers require some from of proof of products that are stolen when processing a claim. Usually, in the form of some sort of proof of purchase. Now, that's all good and well I guess.

But, my question is, what to do if you've got gear that you no longer have those slips etc for?

Any pointers?

shaunf

I have tons of stuff that I don't have invoices for, and in fact have never once been asked for an invoice from my insurer (Mutual and Federal via a reputable broker.) My broker advised that I should take photographs of the equipment, including the serial numbers if applicable and to also record these serial numbers on my insurance schedule.

I have sent a copy of all the photos on a CD to my broker for safekeeping in the event that my home computer grows legs.

A good broker should be able to advise you on what your insurer requires. If you're unfortunate enough to be using one of those direct type insurers, which require you to interact with them via a callcentre, I wish you good luck!

Hope this helps!

StefStoep

shaunf wrote: I have tons of stuff that I don't have invoices for, and in fact have never once been asked for an invoice from my insurer (Mutual and Federal via a reputable broker.) My broker advised that I should take photographs of the equipment, including the serial numbers if applicable and to also record these serial numbers on my insurance schedule.

I have sent a copy of all the photos on a CD to my broker for safekeeping in the event that my home computer grows legs.

A good broker should be able to advise you on what your insurer requires. If you're unfortunate enough to be using one of those direct type insurers, which require you to interact with them via a callcentre, I wish you good luck!

Hope this helps!

+1

I work for an insurer and if a broker comes to me with photos of stolen gear, serial nr.(should be mentioned when insuring the item) and the rest of the required paper work i would have no problem in paying the claim.

Take photos of the serial numbers as well.

symbolofmylife

I checked with my insurer also today. (which is one of the call center types :'( )

They suggest to take the gear to any music shop, and have them write up a valuation certificate. That will serve as valid proof should it be required.

Reinhard

What everyone said. If you need a valuation you can always contact Andreas Barth from guitar experience. I think he asks about R150, which beats trying to get a valuation on a vintage guitar from Bothner's or wherever you choose to go.

refuogee

Please tell us more about Andreas Barth ? That sounds really awesome as I worry a hell of a lot about things getting stolen!!

Reinhard

Andreas is based in Cape Town and sells high end gear.

http://guitarexperience.net/home-2/

So you give him the details, model, year, serial, any mods or things that can affect value etc. and he works from that.

refuogee

Thank you!!