Insuring audio equipment

High end insurance companies will do this as a matter of course, e.g. Chubb, Ace (which bought Chubb). I originally insured my hi-fi under a blanket collectibles plan. It is now scheduled by item and retail/replacement value. I have also insured my record collection- easiest way is a blanket, based on an apportionment of value, e.g. X copies at Y dollars, Z copies at A dollars, etc. I have also done a pretty good job of creating a schedule of records, more detailed for the high value records and I do have photos of most of the high value ones. The difficulty, of course, is replacement of a rare older record that is in a high grade of playing condition. So, even assuming that you are insured, and can prove a loss, you are still not going to have an easy time replacing some records. It is something that gives me nightmares some times, but at some point, I have to put this into perspective--my aim is to enjoy these things while I’m still alive. Once I’m gone, this collection, such that it is, will get broken up and sold to others. I’m just a caretaker.

For inventorying and valuing your LPs I strongly recommend using the Discogs app -- it actually makes the process rather fun and also draws you into the broader Discogs community. Better for rock than classical but excels at parsing the differences between pressings and how that links to value. My insurer told me that a Discogs inventory plus current photographs of the aggregate collection would be sufficient for proof in case of loss

ps being an add on insurer Collectible even threw in coverage for earthquakes, as you all know that's a (cost prohibitive usually) extra for those of us on the West Coast for most of our other insurance needs

I am partially covered but basically, I trust my highly valued but not big brand gear would not be stolen. I should also add that the weight of the amps and speakers means also that they would be hard to move out.

I checked on this a few years ago with my homeowner insurance agent. Unlike works of art or expensive jewelry, which must be scheduled (a detailed listing with an appraisal) and require additional premium, my audio equipment is covered under the basic contents coverage up to the limits of the policy, for which I do have sufficient coverage. Audio equipment is not like art and jewelry and can be valued by description after a loss.

You would need to check with your agent for your policy. Also, my agent sent me written confirmation that this is the case for my policy (just in case!).

Additionally, it is not a bad idea to carry an "Umbrella" policy. Consult your agent for the details.