Ski insurance: who pays in the event of ski theft?

1. Insuring skis against theft: which insurance pays?

Different insurance policies insure the theft of skis or snowboards:

• add-ons simple theft away from home in the home contents insurance

• special ski insurance policies

• some sports equipment insurance policies

Simple theft away from home: insurance for snowboards and skis

The add-on simple theft away from home covers thefts that occur outside your home. The insurance also covers other items such as the ski helmet or the action camera. Important: without this add-on, the home contents insurance does not cover simple theft away from home of skis.

Skis and snowboards are usually insured at their replacement value. The sum insured determines the maximum amount of money you will receive in the event of damage. Sums insured are usually between 2’000 and 4’000 francs. You usually have to pay a deductible of 200 francs to pay. The insurance covers any additional damage up to the maximum amount. However, the exact sum insured and the deductible vary depending on the insurance provider.

2. Ski theft: how do I report the loss to the insurance company?

1. Document the damage: Write down the place and time of the theft. You will need this information later for the damage report.

2. Report the theft to the police: Report the theft to the police. The insurance company usually requires a police report.

3. Find your receipts: Keep any receipts and purchase documents for expensive items. This proves your skis’ value.

4. Report the loss: Report the loss to your insurance company. You can usually do this online using a claim form. Or you can report the loss by telephone.

3. Ski rental: does insurance step in?

If the skis are rented, the person renting is generally liable. However, the rental company is owed only the current value of the skis, i.e. the fair value and not the original price.

«Simple theft away from home» usually also covers theft of rented items. The personal liability insurance on the other hand, often excludes thefts of rented items. The general insurance conditions (AVB) state what applies to your insurance. However, the exact conditions vary from insurer to insurer.

4. Ski theft protection: how can I protect my skis from theft?

Keep your skis or snowboard safe from thieves with the following steps:

• Keep an eye on your equipment at all times.

• Place the two skis and the poles separately from each other.

• Secure skis or snowboards with a lock.

• Use lockable ski and snowboard stands.

• Store your skis and snowboard in locked or supervised rooms.

Good to know: the disappearance of skis or snowboards is not always a case of theft. People can get mixed up and take the wrong skis. Eye-catching stickers, inscriptions or ribbons on the skis minimise the risk of mix-up.

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? The home contents cover pays for self-inflicted damage to your belongings.

• Accident insurance: The accident insurance is compulsory in Switzerland. Do you work more than eight hours a week for the same employer? If so, you are compulsorily insured against accidents through your employer.