Gear insurance

[mattr]

I've just got back from dropping my stuff off at a friend's house (we're recording tomorrow and I had no way of getting it to the studio, so he's bringing it with him tomorrow) and I realised that I have no kind of insurance covering it. If it got stolen or damaged I would be screwed Obviously I can't take out anything now which would cover it this time, but I now feel that I should have a safety net there in future.

So what kind of insurance can I take out (which won't break the bank) that will cover the value of my gear? I don't have too much, but it would still cost a fair amount to replace (check out the 'About me' section on my profile).

I move it around a lot (record at people's houses and in other studios) and so I don't think normal household contents insurance would cover it. I need something that would cover it whether it was locked in a car or under a desk in a studio. Maybe something similar to camera insurance?

Also would it cause problems that I'm 16? Would it need to be taken out in my parents name, in which case would any claim be invalidated by the fact it is looked after by me and not the policy holder?

Help!

Thanks

 

[guido #2]

Things might be different over here, but I have what is called an Inland Marine Policy. I don't have a clue as to what that means, except that my gear is covered for anything anywhere. That means at gigs or a studio or a friends house. I've had it for about 25 years and I'm told it would be difficult to get today. I have about $25K worth of gear on it and pay roughly $225/year, iIrc.
Another option is insurance specific to musicians. I have seen ads in the back of Vintage Guitar Magazine. That would be a good place to look.
You can also just try talking to your existing insurance company and ask them if they might have anything that might fit your situation. Keep in mind that most insurance type people might not really understand gear lingo, so be deliberate and clear when speaking with them.
Good Luck!

 

[The Green Hornet]

Yo MATTR:

Well, things are probably different about a "few" things in the Colonies. However, here is one thing I can pass on to you. Here in the USA, I took out "lightning" strike insurance for my home. And, IT WAS COVERED WHEN MY AW1600 got blasted by Klingons ~ it was fried. But, I got back all but 100 bucks for liability. So, I got just about a new AW1600 on me.

If you are "16" years old, you may have to have an adult verify your insurance policy; I'm not sure what the age limits are in England. But, considering all of the "Solicitors" that abound THERE, you should easily find a policy that will fit your gear needs.

Cheers,
Green Hornet

 

[pohaku]

In the US, if you use the gear for business, it typically won't be covered under your homeowner's insurance. You will need to get a separate policy for that. As it sounds like you are using your gear commercially, I'd speak with an independent insurance agent (perhaps the agent that your parents used for homeowners/auto insurance) about what is available to you.