The Qatar Insurance Company (QIC) has underscored the importance of securing a home insurance policy despite the low crime rate in the country.
QIC Group senior deputy president and CEO Ali Fadala stressed that while Qatar has a low crime rate, homecare insurance helps guarantee that valuables, including artworks are protected from theft, fire and other untoward incidents.
“A vast majority of Qataris and expatriates living in Doha are connoisseurs of art and they like decorating their homes with expensive accessories, artworks, murals and antiques,” Fadala said.
According to Fadala, artworks can be damaged by fire or flooding caused by water leakage from pipes or air-conditioners.
“By insuring art collection under a home insurance policy, they can protect it against any damage or burglary attempt, especially when they are travelling. With homecare insurance from QIC, you can rest assured that your cherished belongings and valuables are insured every day,” Fadala said.
He added: “If you choose to carry your jewellery or an expensive watch while you travel, you can insure them so that you can have your jewellery sparkling and safe.”
Fadala also cautioned travellers to refrain from indiscriminate posting of travel plans and locations on social media unless the site has the appropriate privacy settings.
“Think twice before posting your detailed vacation plans on Twitter or Facebook, especially if that information is visible to users other than your friends and family. This gives a hint that you will be leaving your house unattended during your vacation. “Asking friends to watch over your house will also serve as a precaution since the house will seem more inhabited. In addition, you could also insure your expensive laptops, cameras, and television sets before you travel,” he said.
Fadala said that keeping a low key by making the house appear inhabited will deter passersby from being tempted to commit a crime.
“Newspapers piled up in front of the doorstep could tip off criminals that the homeowner is out of town. Make sure that you stop your supply of newspapers for the days you travel,” he said.
Fadala also advised homeowners to unplug faucets and to turn off appliances such as oven toasters, air-conditioners and water heaters. At same time, jewellery and other valuables should be kept in a fire-resistant locker or safe, he said.
“Be a smart traveller. Make sure to have adequate home insurance protection for your property and belongings before taking that much awaited vacation,” Fadala said.
Ali Fadala
