The afterthought referred to here is the one that happens a few minutes after a calamity with your laptop – the thought that usually comprises you regretting the fact that you don’t have laptop insurance.

Thinking ahead

It’s not something most of us like to spend our time thinking about but sad as it is, the reality of life is that bad things can happen.

They are not reserved for others either – it could be you.

It’s sincerely to be hoped that you never experience any of these things but it is perfectly possible that your laptop could be stolen, broken by an accident or simply break down outside of the manufacturer’s warranty period.

Cue the scene of you needing to decide how you’ll manage without one or as an alternative, reaching for your chequebook or plastic to replace it.

That’s also the point that you’ll have your moment of afterthought and regret – unless you were wise enough to have thought ahead and covered yourself through laptop insurance.

A typical policy

A policy may typically provide cover for the types of problem highlighted above, and once your claim is approved, the laptop will be replaced within 48 hours in the case of some policies.

You may also benefit from cover if you’re travelling overseas on a business trip, holiday or just a weekend break.

Awareness

Do try to find time to read the conditions and policy overviews carefully. As with any insurance product, terms and conditions, exclusions and limitations will apply and you may wish to read these carefully to ensure you understand them. They’ll typically highlight any areas that are not covered by the policy and also outline what your responsibilities are if your cover is to remain effective and in force.

Two examples of what you may find: 

• you may have an obligation to contact the police and report any theft within 24 hours of it happening;
• your laptop may be covered against theft when unattended but only if it is locked away in a secure location.

Money

If you’re unlucky with your laptop, it potentially may cost you a great deal of money. Laptop insurance may help protect you from the worst of that.