Search for insurance help

What Is Proof of Ownership?

General Insurance Home Insurance

Proof of Ownership

You notice a ring you were given by a loved one is no longer where it should be, you immediately start thinking where it could be and what you can do to get it back, insurance! If you need to make a contents insurance claim, you will generally need some evidence of ownership, to prove the stolen or damaged item belonged to you and to demonstrate the dollar value of the item.

What is accepted as proof of ownership?

Receipts and/or tax invoices
Photos in which the items appear in your home or on your person
User manuals / warranty booklets
Bank/credit car statements that show you purchased the goods
Jewellery valuations
Serial numbers

Suggestions on how to retain proof of ownership

Maintain an electronic document folder
Scan copies of receipts as original copies can fade
Take photos of items in your household including jewellery and electronic items

As your insurance broker we keep files with each client's personal insurance information. If there are items you purchase and have valuations or receipts for you can send these through to your broker to retain and keep on your file. For any antique jewellery we do suggest getting up to date valuations for your records, this can make a big difference when it comes to a settlement of a claim to make sure you get the full value of the item. Having proof of ownership can help ensure a smoother claim process but we do understand you may not have all the information required. As your broker we will do everything we can to substantiate a claim to have it accepted and paid for you.

When you have a claim we are here to help!

It does vary when it comes to what different insurers will accept as proof of ownership, so when you do lodge a claim our claims team will be able to advise what documentation may be required and to assist you through the claim process.

Claim Example

A client had four items of jewellery stolen whilst away from home. The client was able to provide proof of ownership, in the form of a evaluation, for one gold chain valued at $4,000. Unfortunately they did not have a proof of ownership for the other three items. The replacement value for two of the items was under $500, so based on good faith the insurer accepted the cover. The last items replacement value was $2,400 and the insurer initially declined cover as no proof of ownership could be provided. Our claims team were able to negotiate with the insurer and obtain a partial settlement for the item.

Business Package

Purchase up to six products under one Business Insurance Package.

Details Get a quote!

AQF Diploma of Insurance Broking

The Diploma of Insurance Broking is deigned to equip individuals with the skills necessary for managing broking teams, handling new business submissions, and providing quality insurance services and advice to clients.

Details Learn More

Tier 2 General Insurance Compliance

This unit focuses on teaching the skills and knowledge required to assess clients’ insurance needs and accurately advise them about retail general insurance products and services.

Details Learn More

contents

General Advice Warning: This advice is general and does not take into account your objectives, financial situation or needs. You should consider whether the advice is appropriate for you and your personal circumstances. Before you make any decision about whether to acquire a certain product, you should obtain and read the relevant product disclosure statement.

All information above has been provided by the author.

Centrewest Insurance Brokers, ABN 44009265105, AFSL 245406