Are My Belongings Covered When Moving to a New Home

Moving to a new home is an exciting venture, but amidst the chaos of packing boxes and coordinating logistics, it's crucial not to overlook the protection of your personal property. Let's delve into the intricacies of whether your belongings are covered when you make that transition.

1. Homeowners or Renters Insurance: The Foundation

Before you even think about moving, it's essential to understand your existing insurance coverage. Homeowners and renters insurance typically provide coverage for personal property, both within your current residence and temporarily while in transit. Verify the extent of this coverage with your insurance provider .

2. In-Transit Coverage: A Closer Look

Some insurance policies include coverage for personal property during a move or even while you are on vacation. This protection can safeguard your belongings against theft, damage or loss while they're being moved from one location to another. However, the scope of this coverage may vary, so it's crucial to review your policy details.

When most people inquire whether their personal property is covered during a move, they are mostly referring to "If the mover breaks your stuff". Most of time, the answer is NO. Movers breaking your items is not typically a "Covered Peril". The biggest exposure of your personal property during the move is breakage. However, damage to your items from fire, vandalism or even theft, are covered perils. So while it may not be the coverage you are looking for, there still is some coverage.

3. Special Items and Valuables: Extra Considerations

High-value items such as jewelry, fine art, or collectibles might have limited coverage under a standard policy. Consider obtaining additional coverage or a floater policy for these valuables to ensure they are adequately protected during the move.

4. Temporary Storage: What's Covered

If your move involves temporary storage of your belongings, check whether your insurance extends to cover items in storage facilities. Some policies may include this automatically, while others might require an additional endorsement.

5. Update Your Insurance Provider: Communication is Key

Inform your insurance provider about your upcoming move. They can provide guidance on coverage specifics, address any concerns, and may even offer recommendations to enhance your protection during the transition.

6. Professional Movers: Know Their Policies

If you're hiring professional movers, inquire about their insurance coverage. Reputable moving companies typically offer different levels of valuation coverage for your belongings. Understanding their policies can help you make informed decisions about additional coverage needs.

7. Documentation: Your Best Ally

Before the move, document the condition of your belongings through photos or a detailed inventory. This documentation can serve as crucial evidence in the event of a claim, helping streamline the process of any issues arise.

In Conclusion

While the excitement of a new home can be all-encompassing, it's essential to prioritize the protection of your personal property during the move. Understanding your existing insurance coverage, exploring additional options, and maintaining clear communication with your insurance provider are key steps to ensure a smooth and secure transition.

I recommend buying coverage through the moving company. Make sure the coverage offered covers the movers breaking your items or the items getting damaged while in transit in the moving truck. You should also understand the amount of coverage you are purchasing and if there are any sub-limits on items.

Hope this helps!

Disclaimer: The content contained in this blog is for informational purposes only. It should not be considered insurance advice since every client's needs and circumstances are different.. Bergen Insurance Group, LLC makes no representation as to accuracy, completeness, currentness, suitability, or validity of any information on this site and will not be liable for any errors, omissions, or delays in this information or any losses, injuries, or damages arising from its display or use. All statements represent the sole opinion of the author and is provided on an as-is basis. For an actual description of all coverages, terms and conditions, refer to your insurance policy.”