Why Scheduling High-Value Items on Your Homeowners Policy Matters

When you think about your homeowners insurance, you probably imagine the big stuff: your house, furniture, electronics, maybe even your beloved backyard smoker. But what about the small things that pack a big punch in value—like your grandmother’s diamond ring, that custom guitar you saved up for, or a designer handbag collection?

Here’s the catch: your standard homeowners policy may not cover those high-value items the way you think it does. And that’s where scheduling personal property (or getting a standalone personal items policy) comes into play.

What Your Standard Homeowners Policy Covers

Your homeowners insurance is designed to protect your home and belongings against risks like fire, theft, or storm damage. But here’s the fine print: most policies have sub-limits for certain types of items.

For example, jewelry, watches, furs, silverware, firearms, or collectibles might only be covered up to $1,500–$2,500 total under a standard policy. So, if you lose a $10,000 engagement ring, your insurance payout could leave you covering most of the replacement cost yourself.

Why Scheduling Your High-Value Items Makes Sense

Scheduling is basically insurance-speak for itemizing and insuring specific belongings at their appraised value. Think of it like giving your valuables their own VIP pass inside your policy.

Benefits of scheduling high-value items:

• Higher coverage limits – Your scheduled item is covered up to its appraised value, not just the small sub-limit in your standard policy.
• Broader protection – Many scheduled items are covered for more than just theft or fire. That ring you accidentally drop down the drain? Covered. The guitar you damage during a road trip? Covered.
• Peace of mind – You don’t have to stress about fine print when it comes to your most treasured possessions.

Standalone Personal Articles Policy

If you’ve got several valuables—like jewelry collections, high-end electronics, or fine art—you may want a standalone personal articles policy. It functions just like scheduling but is completely separate from your homeowners policy. This option often makes sense if your collection grows over time or you want flexibility with how items are insured.

Protect What Matters Most

Living in Central Texas means we know how quickly life can throw curveballs—whether it’s storm season or just the unexpected everyday mishap. At Dowd Insurance Agency, we help homeowners throughout the Hill Country make sure their coverage actually matches their lifestyle.

Your home may be covered, but don’t let your valuables slip through the cracks. Whether you want to schedule a few key pieces or set up a personal items policy, we’re here to guide you every step of the way.