You’ve got it – now insure it! Tips on getting your antiques valued.
If you buy or inherit an antique, don’t forget to look again at the terms of your home contents insurance. There may be a single article limit which is well below the value of your new acquisition.
If you suspect you have an article of antique worth, discuss it with your insurance broker before you contact a valuer. Your broker will be able to tell you exactly what information is needed in order to assess the necessary cover. Your broker may be able to suggest an independent valuer, or you could ask for recommendations from an antique auction house, or contact the Society of Fine Art Auctioneers and Valuers (there's a link to their website below).
Make sure the valuer you use has the appropriate credentials, including ASFAAV (Associate of the Society of Fine Art Auctioneers and Valuers). Pick your valuer carefully – you might need a specialist, so check his or her areas of expertise.
There will obviously be a fee involved, so find out beforehand how this will be charged. It might be on a percentage basis, or an hourly rate with expenses and VAT on top.
One last tip: don’t leave the valuation document lying around as an indication to potential thieves that there is something worth stealing, and exactly what it’s worth! Keep it well hidden. Also, keep a copy with your insurance broker, in case of fire or flood at home.
Society of Fine Art Auctioneers and Valuers >
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