Wednesday, February 6, 2008

Need insurance for your Algarve property?

Portugal Insurance is essential for those who wish to buy Algarve property for sale. There are both Portuguese and foreign insurance companies available for a buyer who wishes to buy a property in Algarve. Also, there are different types of insurance in Portugal. One can choose according to his requirement:

Generally a standard policy of Portugal Insurance includes four essential coverages such as:

  • The house or property
  • Coverage on personal belongings
  • Liability Protection
  • Additional living expenses, in case one is unable to live temporarily
It is highly recommendable to have insurance for the following reasons:
  • Property insurance for property in Algarve helps to protect your property against physical loss. It helps you to protect all your valuable products and your property abroad.
  • If there is any accident within the property due to the owner’s negligence, like a loose step, then the owner is liable. So it is highly essential to have insurance on buy-to-let properties or leaseback properties.
  • According to Portuguese law, employees should be covered for risks by separate policy known as “Acidentes de Trabalho”.
  • Damages caused by natural calamities such as floods, earthquakes, fire and others can be covered with the help of coverages.
  • Accidental damages are caused to oil pipes, water tanks, sewers, underground pipes, electricity and telephone cables, etc. Repairing may cause a great amount of time and money and hence it is better to go for Portugal insurance.
  • It helps to cover the theft or vandalism caused, provided safety measures are followed.
  • Property is covered whether it is occupied or unoccupied depending on the clause.
Additional benefits acquired from the insurance company:
  • Loss of rent is covered following the claim. In case of buy-to-let properties, the rental income is covered.
  • Alternative accommodation, travel expenses and temporary living expenses are covered. In case, the owner doesn’t have a place to stay or need to travel, the insurance company will take care of it
  • Public Liability insurance up to £5m is automatically included; it might vary depending upon the insurance company.
  • Approx, £1m is covered as Employer’s Liability.
  • £50 excess for each loss or damage claim.
  • Any accidental damages caused will also be covered.
  • All policy documents are available in English for easy usage and understanding.
  • It covers both short term and long term lets.
  • Instant coverage is available if insured properly.
Some tips on Portugal Insurance. It is essential to understand the clauses before applying for the insurance. One has to choose the type of insurance carefully, according to his requirement.
  • When obtaining insurance for the property in Algarve it is advisable to consider the full cost for rebuilding including buildings, walls, professional costs incurred in rebuilding, cost of clearing etc.
  • High valued items such as jewels, antique pieces, costly paintings, furniture and others should have a separate valuation and require certificate of authenticity. Moreover, contents with excess value will require proof of security measures.
  • Terrace and swimming pools should be included in any cover. Separate insurance coverage for electrical items.
  • Content Insurance covers from furniture to electrical appliance which will not be covered under building insurance.
  • Tenant Insurance will cover the tenant from accidental damages caused on the owner’s property and his own valuables.
  • Title insurance protects you by bearing the cost of legal liabilities to settle any disputes over the ownership.
Buying property abroad is a huge investment and it has to be protected with necessary safety measures. Insurance on property for sale in Portugal is one of the best ways to safeguard your property. Most of the property for sale in Algarve comes with the benefit of insurance. Property insurance in Portugal is highly beneficial.