How to work out the value of your home contents

Determining the value of your home contents is essential for ensuring you have the right level of insurance coverage. Many homeowners underestimate the value of their belongings, which can lead to inadequate insurance and significant out-of-pocket expenses in the event of a loss. In this guide, we’ll walk you through how to calculate the value of your contents to give you peace of mind and ensure you’re fully protected.

Why contents valuation is important

Home contents insurance typically covers the cost of replacing your personal belongings if they’re lost, stolen, or damaged due to incidents like fire or flooding. Underestimating the value of your contents can lead to underinsurance, which means your insurance payout might not cover the full cost of replacing your belongings. Overestimating, however, can lead to higher premiums than necessary. Accurate valuation helps you find a balance, keeping you covered without overpaying.

Step 1: Create a comprehensive inventory

To start, list each item in your home and estimate its value. Go room by room to ensure that nothing is overlooked. Consider these types of belongings:

• Furniture: Include large items like sofas, beds, and tables.
• Electronics: Calculate the cost of TVs, computers, sound systems, and smaller gadgets.
• Appliances: Include kitchen appliances (both large and small), washers, and dryers.
• Clothing and accessories: Remember to estimate the value of clothing, bags, and shoes.
• Personal items: Include jewellery, watches, and any high-value collectables.
• Art and antiques: If you own fine art, antiques, or other valuable items, consider getting a professional appraisal for accuracy.

An organised inventory provides a clear view of what needs coverage and can expedite claims processing if you need to replace items.

Step 2: Calculate replacement costs

For each item on your list, determine its replacement cost, which is the price to buy a new equivalent item. Insurance generally covers replacement costs rather than the item’s current value, especially for policies that include “new-for-old” cover. Keep receipts or find similar items online to get accurate current pricing.

Some items, like fine art or antiques, may require appraisals to establish their market value accurately. rivr’s home insurance policy includes coverage for high-value items under the contents section, but specified items might need separate declarations for full coverage​.

Step 3: Keep track of high-value items separately

Most contents insurance policies set limits on specific types of high-value items, such as jewellery, art, and electronics. If the value of any single item exceeds the policy’s per-item limit, it should be declared individually to ensure it’s fully covered. High-value items might include:

• Jewellery and watches
• Artwork and antiques
• High-end electronics and appliances
• Keeping these items documented and ensuring they’re listed on your policy prevents gaps in coverage if something happens to them.

Step 4: Review policy coverage and limits

Before finalising your valuation, review your insurance policy. rivr’s home insurance policies cover a wide range of personal property, from clothing and furniture to high-value collectables. However, it’s essential to confirm your policy’s limits on specific categories, as there may be maximum claim amounts per item or per event.

For example, rivr’s policy may have a limit on claims for items like jewellery or artwork unless they’re specifically listed in your schedule. If your total exceeds these limits, talk to your insurance provider about increasing your coverage or adding valuable items as separate endorsements​.

Step 5: Update valuations regularly

Over time, the value of your possessions can change. For example, new purchases add to the value, while the worth of certain items may depreciate. Aim to update your inventory annually, or whenever you make significant purchases. Updating your valuation helps ensure your insurance coverage remains adequate without unexpected shortfalls.

Final thoughts

Calculating the value of your home contents can feel like a daunting task, but it’s a crucial step in safeguarding your assets. By carefully inventorying your belongings and calculating their replacement value, you’ll have peace of mind knowing your insurance accurately reflects your needs.

If you’re unsure about any aspect of contents valuation or would like to review your policy, get in touch with rivr. Our team can assist with appraisals for high-value items and make recommendations to ensure your cover fully protects your lifestyle. Don’t leave your valuable possessions unprotected—take these steps today to secure your peace of mind.