The question of what insurance coverage is available for criminal damage in Highley, Shropshire, is a common one. Generally, criminal damage is covered under the 'buildings and contents' sections of your home insurance policy. However, the specifics of what is covered and the level of reimbursement depend entirely on your individual policy terms and conditions.
Highley, with a population of 3743, currently has a crime rate of 56.1 incidents per 1,000 residents. This is notably lower than the UK average of 91.6 per 1,000, suggesting a generally safer environment. Furthermore, Highley boasts a safety score of 85 out of 100, exceeding the UK average of 79. While this indicates a relatively low risk, criminal damage can still occur.
Your buildings insurance will typically cover damage to the structure of your home, such as broken windows, graffiti, or vandalism to external fixtures. Contents insurance will cover items within your home that are damaged or stolen as a result of criminal damage. It’s crucial to check your policy’s excess – the amount you pay towards a claim – as this can influence your premium.
Most home insurance policies have limits on how much they will pay out for specific items. High-value items like jewellery, artwork, or electronics often have lower coverage limits and may require a separate declaration. It’s also important to understand the policy's conditions. For example, many policies require you to take reasonable steps to secure your property, such as having adequate locks and an alarm system.
When reviewing your policy, pay attention to clauses regarding 'malicious damage' as criminal damage often falls under this category. Contacting your insurance provider directly for clarification on your specific coverage is always advisable. Remember to keep records of any damage, including photographs, as this will be required for any claim.