Is my mobile phone covered for loss or damage on my insurance, or do I need additional cover?
Items such as mobile phones which you would normally carry about your person tend to fall under personal belongings cover. It’s always best to check exactly which personal belongings are covered on your policy so you are not caught out.
Do items such as horse tack require specialist insurance or are they covered on my policy?
Again, check your insurance policy because only some will include cover for these kinds of items. Even if cover is provided, it may be restricted to a set value for unspecified items. If your tack is particularly expensive, you may need to specify its value if this is an option with your insurance provider or take out specialist insurance if this is not an option to ensure you are adequately protected.
What is the best way of protecting contents and personal belongings on my smallholding from theft, damage or loss?
There are lots of practical steps you can take to protect your property. A good place to start is making sure that you do not leave valuable tools or equipment lying around unattended, especially overnight. You can also install motion-sensor lights around your buildings to deter nighttime activity, and ensure that your property has good fencing and secure gates.
You could consider adding signs that deter trespassers such as ‘Beware of Dog’ or ‘Security Cameras in Use’, and displaying security cameras, either real or dummy, to discourage intruders. Reinforcing doors and windows with robust locks and deadbolts will provide another extra level of security, as well installing alarms or adding window bars or security film to vulnerable windows.
Creating an inventory of valuable equipment and marking them with a permanent marker or engraving tool is also a good idea.
Being targeted by criminals can be a constant concern, especially if your property is in an isolated, rural location, which is why it’s important to make it as difficult as possible for would-be thieves.
It’s worth building good relationships with your neighbours so you can look out for each other and report any suspicious activity to the police. You could also join your local Farm Watch scheme, which operate across many rural communities.
And try to avoid posting on social media details about expensive equipment or that you are on holiday or going on holiday, as this only advertises your absence to would-be criminals.