Home insurance warning over downloads

Gadget fans might be left out of pocket if their home insurance policy is not up to scratch, it has been claimed.

Although the cost of replacing a laptop might be a few hundred pounds, the cost of material stored on it could run into the thousands and this is not always covered by home insurance, reports the Financial Mail.

Speaking to the newspaper, Elaine Parkes, spokesperson for home insurance firm Legal and General, said: Downloads, particularly music, films and games, have become increasingly popular, but many consumers probably still do not realise quite how much it would cost or how long it would take to replace them.

Many home insurance firms are likely to offer cover against loss of data through fire, flood and theft, but people should still check, the news provider added.

Yesterday, esure warned that students should have home insurance in place when they start university in case they become a victim of crime.