https://apkplus.site/, a mobile phone is no longer a luxury—it’s a necessity. In the UK, the average adult checks their phone every 12 minutes, and many of us rely on them for everything from banking and navigation to socialising and work. With top-end devices like the iPhone 15 Pro Max and Samsung Galaxy S24 Ultra retailing for well over £1,000, the question arises: should you insure your mobile phone?
What Is Mobile Phone Insurance?
Mobile phone insurance is a type of policy that covers damage, loss, or theft of your handset. Depending on the provider and level of cover, insurance may also include protection against unauthorised usage, accidental damage, screen cracks, and even breakdowns after the manufacturer’s warranty expires.
Policies are typically paid monthly or annually and can be purchased directly from mobile network providers, dedicated insurance companies, or comparison websites. Some banks also offer mobile phone insurance as part of a premium account package.
But is it worth it?
The Cost of Mobile Phone Insurance
Typical Premiums
On average, mobile phone insurance costs in the UK range from £6 to £20 per month depending on the model and value of your phone, and the extent of cover. High-end models like the iPhone 15 or Samsung Galaxy Fold can cost even more to insure.
Example:
- iPhone 15 Pro Max: Around £14.99/month
- Samsung Galaxy S24 Ultra: Around £13.49/month
Annual costs for these policies can total over £150.
Excess Fees
It’s important to note that even if you have insurance, there’s usually an excess—a payment you must make when you make a claim. This can range from £25 to £150, again depending on the value of the handset and the type of claim.
What Does It Cover?
Standard Cover Typically Includes:
- Theft: If your phone is stolen.
- Loss: Some policies include loss, but not all.
- Accidental Damage: Such as dropping your phone or spilling water on it.
- Mechanical Breakdown: Beyond the manufacturer’s warranty.
- Worldwide Cover: Protection even when you’re abroad.
What It Might Not Cover:
- Theft from an unattended vehicle or public place.
- Claims without proof of purchase or ownership.
- Cosmetic damage (e.g., scratches that don’t affect functionality).
- Repeated claims within a short period.
- Loss where negligence is suspected.
The Pros of Mobile Phone Insurance
1. Peace of Mind
One of the biggest benefits is knowing you’re covered if the worst happens. With phones costing upwards of £1,000, replacing a lost or stolen handset can be financially painful without insurance.
2. Quick Replacements
Most reputable insurers aim to replace your phone within 24-72 hours after a claim is approved, minimising disruption to your day-to-day life.
3. Coverage for Accidents
If you’re someone prone to dropping things, or if your phone usage includes lots of travel, outdoor activities, or small children, the risk of damage increases significantly.
4. Protection Abroad
Many policies cover incidents that occur overseas, which is handy if you frequently travel for work or pleasure.
The Cons of Mobile Phone Insurance
1. High Long-Term Cost
If you’re paying £15 a month, that’s £180 per year. Over a typical two-year contract, you’ll have spent £360. In many cases, that’s enough to cover most or even all of the cost of a new phone—especially if you buy refurbished.
2. Excess Fees and Limitations
Even with insurance, you may need to pay an excess of £50 to £150. Plus, not all damage is covered, and some policies limit the number of claims you can make per year.
3. Slow Claims Process
Not all providers are quick or efficient. You may need to provide police reports, proof of ownership, and undergo a frustrating claims process, especially for theft or loss.
4. Existing Alternatives
If you have home insurance with personal belongings cover or a premium bank account, you may already have protection for your phone without paying for a separate policy.
Alternatives to Dedicated Mobile Phone Insurance
1. Home Contents Insurance
Many home insurance policies offer personal possessions cover as an add-on. This extends your cover to items taken outside the home, including your mobile phone. Be sure to check:
- The excess (often £100+)
- The claim limit
- Whether loss and theft are covered
2. Premium Bank Accounts
Some UK banks, such as Nationwide and Barclays, offer mobile phone insurance as part of a monthly-paid packaged account. For example:
- Nationwide FlexPlus (£13/month): Covers mobile phone insurance for you and your family, including loss, theft, and damage.
- Barclays Tech Pack (£14.50/month): Covers up to four gadgets, including mobile phones.
These can be cost-effective if you use other features like travel insurance or breakdown cover.
3. Self-Insurance (Emergency Fund)
Another strategy is to simply save the equivalent of the insurance premium in a savings account. If your phone is damaged, lost or stolen, you can draw from that fund. If not, the money stays yours.
Is It Worth It?
When It Might Be Worth It:
- You own an expensive phone (£800+).
- You’re prone to losing or damaging phones.
- You travel often and want international protection.
- You can’t afford to replace your phone out of pocket.
- You want the peace of mind and convenience of quick replacements.
When It Might Not Be Worth It:
- You’re using a budget or mid-range phone (under £400).
- You’re already covered by another policy (home insurance, bank account).
- You’re careful with your phone and rarely have accidents.
- You can afford to self-insure or replace your device in an emergency.
- You’re nearing the end of your contract and planning to upgrade soon.
Real-Life Scenarios
Case 1: Sarah’s iPhone Was Stolen on the Tube
Sarah had insurance through her bank. She paid £50 excess and got a replacement iPhone 13 within 48 hours. Total cost: £50 + monthly bank fee (£13), but it saved her over £700.
Case 2: Tom Dropped His Samsung Phone
Tom had no insurance. A screen replacement cost him £280. He later decided to self-insure by saving £15/month into an emergency tech fund.
Case 3: Jake Claimed Twice in One Year
Jake had separate phone insurance. His first claim was for accidental damage, the second for loss. After the second claim, his premiums increased, and he was told future claims might be rejected.
Tips Before Buying Mobile Phone Insurance
- Compare Policies – Use comparison sites like GoCompare, MoneySuperMarket, or CompareTheMarket.
- Read the Small Print – Check exclusions and claim limits.
- Know the Excess – Ensure you’re comfortable with the upfront cost of making a claim.
- Register Your Device – Insurers may ask for proof of purchase or IMEI number.
- Check Existing Cover – You might already be protected through other means.
Final Verdict
Mobile phone insurance in the UK can be worth it, but it’s not for everyone. For those with expensive phones or a high risk of damage or theft, it provides essential peace of mind and financial protection. But for careful users or those with alternative cover, it may not offer good value.
Ultimately, the decision comes down to your personal risk tolerance, phone usage, financial situation, and whether you have alternative insurance options.
Ask yourself: Can I afford to replace my phone if I lost it today? If not, insurance could be a smart move.