Removal insurance conundrum

aix

We are about to exchange contracts, so got a quote for removals. The move itself is priced fairly reasonably. However, the optional insurance that's on offer increases the cost by 35%.

The policies and rough costs are:

1. Premises damage insurance - £50
2. Transit insurance - £100
3. Cancellation protection - £100
4. Late key waiver - £25

I am going to give the first two a miss as my home policy covers the move (with the possible exception of overnight storage off the premises, which I'll need to confirm separately).

Cancellation protection - we will have exchanged contracts by the time I will be instructing the removals company. It seems that we'll only need to cancel the move if we fail to complete. I am prepared to take that risk, so will be giving this one a miss too.

Late key waiver - I need to check T&Cs first, but sounds like a good idea. I'll probably be taking it out.

Any views on these choices? Would you consider them sensible?

aix

Anyone?

-aix

kingkano

Definitely go for the key waiver. If they turn up at the new place at 12 and you dont get keys till 3 they can cost! When you say house insurance covers, make sure. I have heard of cases where the van is stolen enroute!!

aix

kingkano wrote: »

Definitely go for the key waiver. If they turn up at the new place at 12 and you dont get keys till 3 they can cost!

Will definitely get this. I think the contracts that we've signed (but not yet exchanged) mentioned 2pm completion, so I'll need to double-check the timing of this whole thing.

kingkano wrote: »

When you say house insurance covers, make sure. I have heard of cases where the van is stolen enroute!!

Ouch! I've already spoken to the insurance company (Hiscox) and they have very specifically told me that my possessions would be fully insured while I am moving between two Hiscox-insured properties (which I am). They have even advised against taking out any further insurance, as it's costly and unnecessary. The only condition that they have pointed out is that, if the possessions are left overnight in vehicles/storage, and the removals firm is not a member of SSA UK, I would need to check with the insurers first. Sounds very reasonable.