Several insurance options are available for valuable model building collections. Your standard home contents insurance provides basic coverage, but often has limits for valuable items. For collections worth over €2,000-€5,000, you usually need additional insurance. Specialized options like art insurance or hobby insurance offer more comprehensive protection against theft, fire, and damage.

Which basic insurance policies already cover model building collections?

Your standard home contents insurance typically covers model building collections up to a certain amount per item. Most insurers set limits of €2,000 to €5,000 per item without additional declaration. For damage caused by fire, storm, burglary, or water leaks, you’ll receive compensation according to the general terms and conditions.

However, the coverage has limitations you need to consider. Many contents insurance policies compensate based on current value, meaning you receive the present value minus depreciation. For rare model building items, this can be problematic since these may actually increase in value.

There are also exclusions that are particularly relevant for collections. Damage from wear and tear, misuse, or poor maintenance usually isn’t covered. Theft from cars often has lower compensation, and damage during transport isn’t always covered.

Check your policy carefully for exact conditions. Some insurers require valuable items to be stored in a safe or special cabinet. There may also be a requirement to declare expensive items separately to the insurer.

When do you need additional insurance for your collection?

Additional insurance becomes important once your collection exceeds the standard limits of your contents insurance. This usually happens with a total collection value above €10,000 or individual items above €2,000-€5,000. If you have rare or unique model building pieces, extra protection is also advisable.

There are clear signs that you need extra protection. If you regularly take model building items to fairs or exhibitions, your standard insurance often doesn’t cover this transport. Collectors who actively trade or sell their collection online also face additional risks.

The value development of your collection also plays a role. Vintage model building, limited editions, or items from well-known brands can quickly increase in value. Your standard insurance doesn’t account for this, leaving you underinsured.

Also consider your living situation. Do you live in student housing, rental accommodation, or an area with frequent break-ins? Then the risk is greater and additional coverage may be wise. If you have a separate hobby room or shed where you store model building items, check whether these locations are covered.

What are the best insurance options for valuable model building?

Art insurance policies are often the best choice for valuable model building collections. These insurance policies are specially designed for collectibles and offer coverage at replacement value or appraised value. They also cover risks like exhibitions and transport that standard insurance excludes.

Hobby insurance is another good option. These are specifically developed for collectors and hobbyists. They often offer flexible coverage options where you can choose which items you want to insure. They also usually have more lenient conditions for storage and use.

Additional contents packages with your current insurer can be cost-effective. Many insurers offer extensions specifically for valuable items. The advantage is that everything stays with one insurer, which is administratively easier.

Some insurers also offer modular solutions. You can then choose from different coverage components like transport insurance, exhibition coverage, or extra theft protection. This gives you the ability to choose exactly the protection that suits your situation.

Always compare conditions carefully. Pay attention to things like deductibles, coverage area (Netherlands only or abroad too), and whether there are requirements for security or surveillance. Claim handling also differs between insurers.

How do you prepare for insuring your collection?

Good preparation starts with a complete inventory of your model building collection. Make a list of all items, including brand, model, year of manufacture, and current condition. Also note where and when you bought each item, plus the purchase price. This information is essential for a proper valuation.

Photograph each item extensively from different angles. Also take detailed photos of special features, damage, or repairs. Store these photos digitally in multiple locations, such as cloud storage and an external hard drive.

For valuable items, a professional appraisal is important. Find a certified appraiser who specializes in model building or similar collectibles. A good appraisal provides not only the current value, but also information about rarity and expected value development.

Collect all relevant documents such as purchase receipts, certificates of authenticity, repair receipts, and previous appraisals. Make copies of these and store the originals in a safe place. Manuals and original packaging can also affect value.

Regularly check whether your documentation is still current. Market prices can change, and new purchases naturally need to be added. Plan an annual update of your inventory and have valuable pieces reappraised every few years.

Where can you find the best model building products for your collection?

For expanding your model building collection, it’s important to buy from reliable suppliers. Specialized webshops often offer the best combination of quality, service, and pricing. They usually also have the knowledge to advise you well on new acquisitions for your collection.

With us, you’ll find an extensive range of high-quality model building products for every collector. We offer not only a wide range of models, but also all necessary accessories like glue, paint, and tools. Our model building range is regularly expanded with the latest releases and limited editions.

A major advantage of our approach is that you automatically receive discounts on multiple items. This unique discount concept also applies to the very latest products, making expanding your collection more financially attractive. On our discount page you’ll find all details about how this works exactly.

We understand that collectors value fast delivery and careful packaging. That’s why we offer same-day shipping until 23:30 and ensure your new acquisitions arrive perfectly protected. This is especially important for delicate model building items that will later become part of your insured collection.

By shopping smart with reliable suppliers, you not only build a better collection, but also keep administration organized. This makes it easier later to update your insurance with new purchases.