Do you know if your homeowners insurance truly protects your most valuable possessions?
What would happen if your $8,000 engagement ring was stolen and your insurance only paid $1,500?
In this article, you’ll discover why scheduled personal property coverage is a must-have for Roanoke homeowners with high-value belongings.
We’ll walk you through:
- What scheduled personal property coverage is
- Which items need it most
- How to schedule your valuables
- Key risks specific to North Texas
- How to ensure you’re fully protected
What Is Scheduled Personal Property Coverage?
Scheduled personal property coverage is an endorsement to your homeowners policy that insures high-value items for their full worth.
Instead of relying on generic personal property coverage—which comes with strict dollar limits—this endorsement lets you itemize and fully protect valuables like jewelry, art, and electronics.
Why Your Standard Policy Isn’t Enough
Most homeowners policies include personal property coverage capped at 50–70% of your dwelling limit. But “sub-limits” leave high-value items vulnerable.
| Item Category | Typical Sub-Limit |
|---|---|
| Jewelry & Watches | $1,500–$2,500 |
| Firearms | $2,000–$3,000 |
| Fine Art & Antiques | $1,500–$2,500 |
| Silverware & Goldware | $2,500 |
| Electronics & Cameras | $1,000–$5,000 |
| Collectibles & Memorabilia | Very Low |
If your $8,000 engagement ring is stolen, you could be left footing a $6,500 bill.
Why Roanoke Homeowners Need Extra Protection
1. Severe Weather Risks
Roanoke faces frequent hail, tornadoes, and thunderstorms—each capable of damaging or destroying valuables.
- 32+ hail reports in the last year
- High wind, flash flood, and lightning risk
2. High Property Values
With a median home price of $454,500, Roanoke residents often own items that exceed sub-limits.
Commonly owned high-value items:
- Designer jewelry
- Luxury watches
- Art collections
- High-end electronics
3. Increased Theft Risk
Proximity to DFW and higher-value homes make Roanoke properties potential targets.
Easily transportable items—jewelry, electronics, collectibles—are prime theft risks.
Which Items Should Be Scheduled?
Consider scheduling any item that would be financially or emotionally difficult to replace:
Jewelry & Watches
- Engagement rings, wedding bands
- Luxury or inherited watches
- Gemstone or designer pieces
Fine Art & Collectibles
- Original art, antique furniture
- Rare coins, stamps, memorabilia
Electronics & Professional Equipment
- Cameras, musical instruments
- AV equipment, high-end computers
Other Valuable Items
- Furs, designer clothes
- Golf clubs, bikes, silverware
- Firearms or collections
Key Benefits of Scheduling Personal Property
1. Full Value Protection
You’re covered for the full appraised value—not subject to sub-limits.
2. Broader Coverage
Scheduled items are typically covered under “open perils“—protecting against:
- Mysterious disappearance
- Accidental damage
- Worldwide losses
3. No Deductible
Most endorsements waive the deductible on scheduled items.
4. Replacement Cost Coverage
You’re reimbursed for the full replacement cost—not a depreciated value.
How to Schedule Your Valuables
1. Inventory Your Items
Include:
- Descriptions
- Photos
- Receipts
- Appraisals (if available)
2. Get Professional Appraisals
Required for:
- Jewelry
- Art
- Rare collectibles
3. Work With a Local Agent
They’ll help:
- Set limits
- Submit documents
- Calculate premiums
4. Review Regularly
Update coverage every 2–3 years for new items and rising values.
What It Costs
Scheduled personal property is surprisingly affordable.
| Category | Annual Cost per $10,000 |
|---|---|
| Jewelry | $130–$140 |
| Fine Art | $80–$100 |
| Collectibles | $100–$120 |
| Electronics | $120–$150 |
A $5,000 engagement ring might only cost $65–70 annually to insure.
Special Considerations for Texas Homeowners
Wind & Hail Damage
Texas policies must cover wind, hail, fire, and tornadoes—critical protections in North Texas.
Flood Damage Exclusion
Flooding isn’t covered—even for scheduled items.
Consider a separate flood policy if you’re in a vulnerable area.
Mysterious Disappearance
This coverage is optional but important—especially for jewelry and small valuables.
Appraisal Requirements
Ensure appraisals meet Texas insurance standards—use licensed local professionals.
Why Work With a Local Roanoke Insurance Agent?
Local agents understand Roanoke’s specific risks and can guide you through proper coverage.
Look for agents who:
- Have experience with high-value items
- Work with certified appraisers
- Offer multiple carrier options
- Have strong claims support
Top options include:
- Local State Farm agents
- Neill Insurance Brokers
- Independent agents representing Travelers, etc.
What Happens If You Need to File a Claim?
Immediate Steps
- File a police report (if needed)
- Contact your insurer right away
- Document with photos
- Preserve damaged items
Settlement Options
Your insurer may:
- Repair or restore the item
- Replace it
- Provide a cash payout
Protect Your Valuables Beyond Insurance
Security Measures
- Install alarms
- Use safes or safety deposit boxes
- Keep photographic records
Documentation Management
- Keep receipts, appraisals, certificates
- Store offsite or digitally
Questions to Ask Your Agent
- What are my current sub-limits?
- Which items should I schedule?
- What documents are needed?
- How are claims handled?
- What exclusions apply?
- How often should I reappraise items?
Conclusion: Protecting Your Roanoke Legacy
At the end of the day, we’ve all experienced the worry of losing something irreplaceable—whether to weather, theft, or simple accidents. This is especially true in North Texas, where weather extremes and high property values add to the risk.
Now that you’ve learned how scheduled personal property coverage works, what it costs, and how it protects your family’s most cherished items, it’s time to take the next step.
Talk to a Roanoke-area insurance agent today to schedule your valuables and ensure your legacy is protected—no matter what comes your way.
