Snowboard or skis stolen – which insurance pays?
Suppose thieves steal your snowboard or skis. Who pays for your new sports equipment? Comparis provides an overview of insurance policies for snowboards and skis.
06.12.2023
iStock/Jag_cz
1. Which insurance covers my skis against theft?
Various types of insurance cover theft of skis or snowboards:
add-ons simple theft away from home home contents insurance
special ski insurance
to some extent, sports equipment insurance
Simple theft away from home: insurance for snowboards and skis
The “simple theft away from home” add-on covers thefts that happen when you are out and about. This add-on also covers other items such as ski helmets or action cameras. Please note: home contents insurance does not cover third-party ski theft without this add-on.
Skis and snowboards are usually insured at their replacement value. The sum insured determines the maximum amount of money you will receive if your items are damaged. This is usually between 2,000 and 4,000 francs. You usually have to pay a 200 francs deductible. The insurance company covers excess damage up to the maximum amount.
Is it worth covering skis against theft?
Ski insurance covers theft or breakage of skis and snowboards. Depending on the insurer, you can take it out from 60 francs per year.
As a comparison: you can take out the “simple theft away from home” add-on from just 30 francs per year. It covers not only the theft of skis and snowboards, but also other items.
2. How do I report theft of my skis to the insurance company?
Document the damage: Write down the time and place of the theft. You will need this information later to make your claim.
Report the theft to the police: Report the theft to the police. The insurance company usually requires a police report.
Find your receipts: Keep any receipts for expensive items. This proves your skis’ value.
Report the loss: Report the loss to your insurance company. You can do this online using a claim form. Or you can report the loss by telephone.
3. Does insurance pay out if I’m renting skis?
If the skis are rented, the person renting is generally liable. However, the rental company is owed only the current value of the skis, not the original value.
“Simple theft away from home” usually insures theft of rented items. On the other hand, personal liability insurance often excludes thefts of rented items. The general insurance conditions state what applies to your insurance.
4. How can I protect my skis from theft?
Keep your skis or snowboard safe from thieves with the following steps:
Always keep an eye on your personal items.
When not skiing, keep your skis and poles separately from each other. .
Keep your skis or snowboard locked away.
Use lockable ski or snowboard stands.
Store your skis or snowboard in closed rooms, or rooms you can always see into. .
It’s not always a case of theft. People can get mixed-up and take the wrong skis. Eye-catching stickers, inscriptions or ribbons on the ski minimise the risk of any mix-up.
Duty of supervision for skis and snowboards
If you leave your skis or snowboards unattended, insurers often won’t pay out if they are stolen. This is because you violated your duty of supervision. An exception is made if you store your skis in front of a mountain restaurant. In this case, you aren’t regarded as violating your duty of supervision.
5. Which other insurance policies are worthwhile for people who ski?
Additional types of insurance are advisable for skiers. Accidents can result in high costs. You can offset these costs with the following types of insurance:
Personal liability insurance: the personal liability insurance covers the costs of any damage you cause others – such as if you hit and injure another person.
Accidental damage cover: Have you damaged your skis or snowboard? Accidental damage cover pays for self-inflicted damage to your belongings.
Accident insurance: Accident insurance is compulsory in Switzerland. You are usually covered by your employer or by your health insurance.
This article was first published on 14.02.2014
