Hidden Gaps: Why Your Homeowners Insurance Might Not Fully Cover Your Valuables

When most people think of homeowners insurance, they assume everything inside their home is automatically protected. But if you own high-value items — like jewelry, collectibles, high-end electronics, or even an expensive mountain bike — your policy might not cover them as much as you think.

The Coverage Limit You Probably Didn’t Notice

Most standard homeowners policies cap coverage for specific types of property. For example:

• Jewelry & watches: Often limited to $1,500 – $2,500 total.
• Bicycles & sporting gear: Commonly capped at $1,000 – $2,000 per item.
• Firearms or collectibles: Usually have category limits, not full-value coverage.

That means if your $6,000 mountain bike is stolen or your engagement ring goes missing, your insurer might only pay out a fraction of the cost.

What Is Scheduled Property Coverage?

Scheduled property coverage (also called a “rider” or “endorsement”) lets you itemize your most valuable belongings and insure them individually for their full appraised value.

This means if a listed item is lost, stolen, or damaged, you’re reimbursed for its true worth — not a capped amount.

Why It Matters in Arizona

Arizona homeowners, especially those with outdoor lifestyles, often own expensive sporting gear, art, or jewelry. Between weekend trips, outdoor adventures, and seasonal travel, those items face higher risk of theft or damage.

How to Schedule Property the Right Way

1. Take Inventory: Make a list of valuables worth more than $1,000.
2. Get Appraisals: Insurers typically require professional appraisals or receipts.
3. Work with Your Agent: Ask about scheduling options and limits for your existing policy.
4. Revisit Annually: As values change, update your schedule — especially after major purchases.

Bonus Tip: Off-Premises Protection

Scheduled property can also cover items away from home — so if your bike is stolen from your car at a trailhead or your watch disappears on vacation, you’re still protected.

Bottom Line:
Your homeowners policy covers a lot — but not everything. Scheduling high-value property ensures the belongings you care most about are protected for their full worth.