How Boat Insurance Protects Against Theft of Equipment and Accessories

Your boat represents a significant investment, but it’s not just the hull you need to worry about. All those electronics, fishing gear, and accessories can add up to thousands of dollars. At Tim Huber Insurance in St. Augustine, FL, we help boat and watercraft owners understand how their coverage protects against theft of valuable equipment.

What Does Your Policy Cover?

Most boat insurance policies include coverage for permanently attached equipment, such as GPS units, fish finders, and radio systems. This coverage typically applies to items that are bolted down or hardwired into your electrical system. However, the definition of "permanently attached" can vary between insurers, so it’s important to review your specific policy language.

Personal property coverage is another key component. This protects removable items like fishing rods, tackle boxes, life jackets, and portable electronics. Many policies set limits on personal property coverage, often around 10% of your boat’s insured value.

Understanding Policy Limitations

Here’s where things can get complicated. Many policies only cover theft when there is evidence of a break-in, such as signs of forced entry. If someone takes your unsecured fishing gear while you’re grabbing lunch, you might not be covered. Some insurers also exclude coverage for theft of items left in open areas, such as on deck or in unlocked compartments.

High-value electronics often require special consideration. For example, a $5,000 fish finder might exceed your standard limits, necessitating additional coverage or a scheduled item endorsement.

How to Protect Your Investment

The best strategy combines proper insurance with smart security practices. Document your equipment with photos and serial numbers, use locks, and consider removing valuable portable items when leaving your boat unattended.

Tim Huber Insurance in St. Augustine, FL, can review your current coverage and help ensure your valuable boat equipment is properly protected.

How much condo insurance do I need?

Whether your condominium is your primary or secondary home, it is likely among your most significant investments. That makes insurance coverage that protects against the financial impact of fire, theft, or other unforeseen causes critical. Our goal at Tim Huber Insurance is to provide the coverage that best meets the needs of those in or near Jacksonville or St. Augustine, FL.

Condo Insurance Considerations

Every condo is different, as are the owner’s needs, so there is no one-size-fits-all formula for the amount of condo insurance you need. How much condo insurance you need depends on your choice of selected coverages, insured limits, and deductibles. More specifically:

  • Building Property- Your insured amount varies with the condo’s value and whether your association’s coverage is All-In or Bare Wall. All-in means the association is responsible for the building structure, cabinets, lighting, and other fixtures attached to the interior walls. Bare Walls mean the association covers only the building structure, so you must insure the interior fixtures.
  • Personal Property- The value of your furniture, flooring, appliances, and personal items drives the insured amount.
  • Personal Liability- Your risk tolerance determines whether you increase the liability limits for legal fees and medical bills above the policy minimums.
  • Additional Living Expenses- You choose whether to cover the expenses if you need to live elsewhere while repairs occur.
  • Loss Assessment Coverage- Protects you when facing charges due to shortfalls in the association’s coverage or new assessments.

Working with Tim Huber Insurance

Tim Huber Insurance proudly serves the St. Augustine, FL area. We take the time to understand each client’s unique insurance needs and look forward to helping you obtain a policy to protect your home and family against unforeseen events. Call or stop by today to discuss your condo insurance options.