Besides having buildings insurance, contents insurance or a combination policy many companies also offer contents accidental damage insurance for a typically a small additional fee.  Most owners know those items that would hurt financially to replace and those items that could be destroyed by something as common as a spilled drink or a bad moment of clumsiness. This can be very helpful if there is a small child in the home or if there are many breakables worth more than the average amount of money like antiques are electronics. In other words, if one simple accident could put the owner considerably out of pocket then this is a good investment. 

Taking a look at any existing policies might reveal that while there is insurance for contents accidental damage it is not enough especially for those who own electronics like computers, games consoles or DVD players. If the insurers’ limit is only about £1000 this might not be enough to cover those types of losses. A home owner should carefully go over what possessions need to be covered, their potential cost and the exact amount coverage.

Most contents accidental damage will pay out for televisions, CD players, DVD players, VCRs, desktop and laptop computers along with other home entertainment equipment. 

Accidental damage is usually defined as harm that comes suddenly due to an unexpected and external action when there is no deliberate intent or plan to cause the damage.  This eliminates problems or damage caused by wear and tear, and any type of mechanical failure is not covered either.  For instance, the television that simply will not power on mysterious would not be covered.  If the two-year-old gets tangled in the cord and drags it off it the stand smashing it then this would be covered. One cause of many home claims is the presence of children. Many standard policies cover the wayward tot naughtily pouring breakfast cereal into the computer, but it is always a smart measure to be sure.  

Many people look for additional contents accidental damage insurance coverage, extending it can protect against the odd moments that happen in a busy household.  Too many little hands clutching crayons, or little feet going where they should not have, destroyed thousands and thousands of dollars and most homeowners cannot afford the loss. It is important to note that pet damage is often not included on these polices.  If the family ferret chews on wires or the dog digs a hole in the living room sofa this will be out of pocket for the owner.

Contents accidental damage might not cover pest damage either so if ants like the smell of the DVD player’s inner workings or if moths denude the living room furniture during the family’s vacation then this too will sadly not be insured. It is the best idea to be very familiar with what is on existing policies and to supplement with more coverage if there are any ‘holes’ that need to be filled.