Work is becoming increasingly mobile these days. From laptops to iPads, blackberries to iPhones, fewer and fewer workers are sitting behind a traditional desk. And that means more and more travellers, particularly business ones, are bringing electronics with them on their travels – whether in cars, trains, or planes – creating attractive opportunities for thieves.
As a smart traveller, you’ve already taken all the precautions to ensure your electronics are out of harms way, but sometimes, a theft cannot be prevented. When that happens, here’s what you need to know.
What happens if my personal laptop/iPad/Smartphone is stolen?
If your personal laptop is stolen from your vehicle, it cannot be claimed under your auto insurance policy, but instead must be claimed under your home, tenant, or condo insurance. Other damage to the vehicle (such as a broken window) will fall under the auto policy, but not items in the vehicle.
If your laptop is stolen while travelling – say in an airport lobby – it will also need to be claimed under your home, tenant, or condo policy. Remember that any claims will be subject to your deductible which is found on your insurance policy.
If you do not have home, tenant, or condo insurance, unfortunately, you have no ability to claim the stolen item.
What happens if the laptop/iPad/Smartphone is owned by my employer?
In that case, you can claim the item through your employer’s business policy.
What if it’s my own laptop, but I use it for business?
This can still be claimed under the coverage ‘Personal Property of Officers and Employees’ section of your employer’s policy. However, there is typically a deductible of $1,000 or more, which is usually more than the value or the laptop or Smartphone. In those situations, you have the option of claiming through your home, tenant, or condo insurance policy.
How can I insure my laptop/iPad/Smartphone if I’m a self employed ?
If you are self-employed, generating above a specified revenue level whether you’re working from home or an office, you require a separate business insurance policy. It is on this policy that you would schedule your laptop and other electronics.
