Does Homeowners Insurance Cover Collectibles? 

To their owners, collectibles are not just objects — they’re tangible pieces of history and culture and a direct reflection of their passions.  

However, the very qualities that make collectibles so precious also expose them to unique risks. Theft, damage during transport, or accidental breakage can devastate a collection that has taken years to assemble. 

Unfortunately, these unique risks are rarely appropriately covered by standard homeowner insurance policies. Avid collectors who rely on their homeowner’s policy are likely to encounter low coverage limits — if their collectibles are covered at all. 

For most, this will mean a collectibles policy. Designed specifically for the needs of collectors, this specialized coverage offers protection tailored to the high values and distinct risks associated with collectible items. 

In this guide, we’ll explore the world of collectibles insurance: what it covers, how it differs from standard homeowners policies, and why it’s essential for serious collectors. By partnering with Distinguished Programs, you can provide your clients with the peace of mind that comes from knowing their cherished collections are comprehensively protected. 

Does Homeowners Insurance Typically Cover Art or Collectibles?

While a standard homeowners policy often includes some coverage for personal property, which can extend to art and collectibles, it’s often not enough for most serious collectors. Standard homeowners policies often fall short because their coverage limits are too low, they lack specialized coverages required by collectors, and they can be difficult to get depending on where your clients live.  

For instance, many homeowners policies will insure collectible items only up to a certain amount per item, which could be as low as $200 each. In the case of a catastrophic loss, art pieces worth thousands of dollars would only be covered up to that low per-item limit, leaving the collector with significant financial losses. 

A homeowners policy may also lack specialized coverages that address unusual situations faced by collectors. For example, transit coverage, which protects items while they are being shipped or moved, is often excluded from homeowner’s policies. So, if a piece is stolen or damaged while being transported for appraisal or exhibition, it likely wouldn’t be covered. 

Finally, in many states across the country, it’s becoming increasingly difficult for homeowners to obtain insurance at all, let alone collectibles coverage. Clients who previously relied on their homeowner’s policy to protect their collections may find this option no longer available. 

For these reasons, clients with substantial or valuable art and collectibles should consider a standalone specialized fine art and collectibles insurance policy. These policies are designed specifically to address the unique risks and coverage needs of collectors, providing more comprehensive protection than a standard homeowners policy. 

What is Collectibles Insurance? 

Collectibles insurance is a specialized insurance policy designed specifically for individuals who own valuable collectible items, such as fine art, rare coins, stamps, antiques, wine collections, and more. These collectibles policies are tailored to address the unique risks associated with owning and transporting high-value collectibles. 

Unlike standard homeowners insurance, collectibles insurance offers coverage limits designed to fit the collection itself, which is typically up to the full appraised value of the collection. It also provides more comprehensive protection against a wide range of common risks, including accidental damage, theft, loss, and damage during transit. 

For serious collectors, having a dedicated collectibles insurance policy allows them to enjoy, display, and transport their collections with confidence without worrying about potential financial losses. 

What Items Can Be Covered Under a Collectibles Policy?  

Collectibles policies can cover a wide array of fine art and collector’s items, such as: 

• Fine art 
• Antique furniture  
• Rare coins 
• Video game collections 
• Sports and entertainment memorabilia
• Vintage comic books   
• Wine 
• Musical instruments
• Designer pieces and bags
• Rare books and manuscripts   

Essentially, collectibles insurance can cover nearly any item that has collectible value and can be sold on a secondary market. If your client has a niche collection that we haven’t listed, feel free to reach out to us, and we can figure out a way to get your client the coverage they need. 

What Are the Benefits of a Fine Art and Collectibles Policy? 

At Distinguished Programs, our specialty fine art and collectibles insurance offers several key advantages over relying solely on homeowners insurance: 

• Doesn’t Affect Homeowner Premiums: If your client needs to file a claim, it won’t impact their homeowner’s insurance premiums. 
• More Flexible or Beneficial Valuation: While our policy typically offers either agreed or current market value depending on your client’s needs, in certain circumstances, we can even offer the option for market value up to 150% of the scheduled amount, providing a buffer for appreciating collectibles.  
• Automatic Coverage for New Items: New acquisitions are automatically given coverage (up to 25% of the policy limit), giving your client time to formally add items to their policy. 
• Comprehensive Transit Coverage: Our worldwide transit coverage protects collectibles during shipping and transport between locations. 
• Expertise in Niche Collectibles: Our team has deep knowledge spanning diverse collectible categories. We understand the unique risks and how to best insure these special items. 
• Flexible Deductibles and Payment Options: Our underwriting team can take into account your client’s collection, budget, and risk tolerance and design each policy to fit their needs. 
• Can Have Higher Limits for Collections: With a collectibles policy, your clients can insure the full value of their collection — limits are much higher than what’s available under a homeowners policy. 

How Much Does Collectibles Insurance Cost? 

The cost of collectibles insurance depends on various factors, including the type of items, their overall and individual values, where and how they are stored, and the coverage options and deductibles selected. Other considerations include the insurance company’s ratings and loss experience.  

The best way to get an accurate quote for your client is to register with Distinguished and then submit a full application detailing your client’s collection. Our team at Distinguished can then provide a bindable quote tailored to your client’s needs. 

Partner with Distinguished Today for Your Collector Clients 

At Distinguished Programs, we specialize in serving the insurance needs of fine art and collectibles clients. Our team combines deep expertise across collection categories with flexibility in underwriting and customizing coverage.  

To get your clients access to our exclusive private collections policies, register your agency with us (if you haven’t done so already). Next, fill out an application form and submit it through our online portal.  

Please include all relevant details and documents with your application. This includes a schedule of items being insured, details on security measures, valuations, and a list of covered locations. 

If you have any questions about this process, feel free to reach out to our team. 

Private Collection Insurance FAQs 

Will this policy cover items while they are being shipped? 

Yes, unless otherwise stated, our private collection policies include worldwide transit coverage. 

Will this policy cover items stored in a safe deposit box? 

Yes, coverage will still be in place if items are stored in a safety deposit box. 

What documentation should I keep on file for my new purchase or maintain for my collection? 

Clients should always keep: 

• Invoice or receipts for any of the insured items 
• High-quality photos 
• Appraisal documents 
• A completed schedule or list of the collection 

About Distinguished Programs

Distinguished Programs is a leading national insurance Program Manager providing specialized insurance programs to brokers and agents with specific expertise in Fine Art and Collectibles, Environmental and Construction Professional, Executive Lines, Inland Marine, Real Estate & Builder’s Risk, Community Associations, Hotels, and Restaurants. Property and Liability products are distributed through a national network of agents and brokers. Serving the same core markets and partnering with the most stable and reputable carriers, Distinguished’s high-limit Umbrella programs remain the clear choice in its area of specialty for superior coverage, competitive pricing, and attentive service. Through thoughtful innovation, stemming back to 1995, Distinguished Programs fosters growth and opportunities for its brokers, carriers, and employees.

View a full list of our programs and submit business with Distinguished.

‣ Register Your Agency
‣ Learn More
‣ Contact Us