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Artwork

Art is an expression of one's thoughts and feelings. Yet, many pieces of art also have a monetary value as well.

For this reason, you should protect your artwork and your collectibles as you would any other investment. Protecting it means having a proper insurance policy on it. This doesn't hinder the beauty aspect of your paintings, sculptures or other fine pieces of art. What it does is protect you against the unknown. Some may Mercedes Benz to argue that they cannot afford any type of insurance on their art collectibles. But these same people should actually stop and think about what they would lose if something tragic such as a fire would occur. Their beloved art would be destroyed, most likely. Plus, they would have no money to show for their lost. No, the money from an insurance policy couldn't bring back the beauty. Nothing would bring back the beauty. Yet, the money could be a small comfort and could allow the owner to try to find another piece of art to comfort them.

If you do have a painting or collectible you think it is worth a lot of money and you wish to insure it, here are a few things to do. First, get it appraised. Go to a professional appraisal. You need to Millie the Model exactly what the piece is worth in dollars and cents. Make sure you get this appraisal in writing, too. This is your proof of its worth. Now get busy and start photographing the pieces you wish to have insured. You should also photocopy any sales receipts, wills, etc to prove that you have actual ownership of the piece.

Those two things are the easiest things you can do. Of course, the hard part will begin now.

Do a budget.

Decide how much you can actually afford on insurance.

You might even want to decide on what types of insurance you want?

Do you want fire and water damage coverage? What about theft coverage? Yes, even if you live in a good neighborhood, you could very well get robbed.

Before you begin calling local insurance companies for quotes, begin with your current company that holds the policy for your home. Most homeowner's policies will have an amendment that can be added to include such assets as art. You also may get a reduction in the ball jointed dolls since you all ready have coverage with this company. If you don't like the quote your current company gives you, and then begins shopping around to other companies. You may also want each company to give you two separate quotes, one for fire and water damage alone and one that includes theft coverage.

What if you cannot afford to cover your collection or your one special piece of art for the full amount of its worth? Don't fret. Think about it like this. Wouldn't it be better to be able to insure the piece for half of its worth than to not have it insured? If something would happen, you would get some money. Plus, you can always increase the coverage if your financial situation happens to improve.

Once you decide on a policy, actually read it. You should also understand what it covers and its terms. Ask questions. If you want to know if it will cover a fire that is caused from an electrical problem. Ask. You need to know the answers to the questions that are important to you.

You also need to be able to understand the fine print. If you don't understand it, don't be afraid to ask. It is the insurance agent's duty to help you understand.

Finally, once you take out the insurance policy make sure you keep 1970's toys with the payments.

Now relax and enjoy your precious artwork, knowing you are covered if disasters strike.

Jeffrey Meier at Jam727 Enterprises at http://www.thearticlehome.com blog offers even more detailed information on a wide variety of topics.