Howden Private Clients

30/09/2026

A £100,000 painting hanging above a toilet. A £15,000 antique cabinet hidden under a television. A piece of pottery worth far more than its owner realised.

It may sound surprising, but valuable possessions are often hidden in plain sight.

Recent art thefts have highlighted the importance of protecting collections, but one of the biggest risks facing collectors is not knowing the true value of what they already own.

In this article, Steve Moores explores what collectors can learn from recent thefts, why valuations matter, how insurance policies can differ, and the practical steps you can take to help protect art, antiques, jewellery and collectibles.

Recent art thefts highlight why collectors should review security, valuations and insurance for valuable collections.

30/09/2026

The cost of overlooking a crack could be more than you think.

Subsidence claims can be complex, disruptive and expensive to resolve. Following a summer of record temperatures and exceptionally low rainfall, industry experts are already reporting increased levels of subsidence activity across the UK.

In this article, we explain the signs homeowners should take seriously and why acting early can help ensure the right investigations are carried out.

Subsidence explained: key warning signs, causes and when to seek professional advice.

14/09/2026

Most people think about locks, alarms and cameras when it comes to protecting their home. But what about the information you share on social media?

Holiday updates, location tags, home renovations and new purchases can all reveal more than you might realise. Combined with other publicly available information, they can create a surprisingly detailed picture of your home, possessions and daily routines.

As criminals become increasingly sophisticated in how they use publicly available information, managing your digital footprint has become an important part of protecting both your home and your personal information.

Our latest article explores the risks of oversharing online and shares practical steps you can take to reduce your exposure to both physical and cyber threats.

Discover how social media, property listings and other online information can unintentionally expose your home to risk, and learn practical steps to protect your privacy, security and lifestyle.

09/09/2026

Weather patterns are becoming increasingly unpredictable, making it more important than ever to understand the risks they can pose to your home. From storms and flooding to high winds and power outages, our latest article explores practical steps homeowners can take to reduce potential damage and improve resilience. It also highlights why keeping your insurance arrangements up to date forms an important part of protecting your property.

Prepare your home for severe weather with practical risk management guidance to help reduce damage and claims.

28/08/2026

Plug-in solar panels are making headlines, but are homeowners thinking enough about fire safety?

Whether you're considering solar panels or already have them installed, it's important to understand the risks as well as the benefits.

From installation and maintenance to insurance considerations, here we explore some of the steps homeowners can take to help reduce fire risks and protect their property.

Learn how to safely install, maintain, and insure solar panels to reduce fire risks and protect your home and investment.

25/08/2026

Do you really know what's covered in your flat?

Many owners of flats and apartments assume that because their building is insured under a block policy, everything within their home is fully protected.

However, high-quality kitchens, bespoke fitted furniture, luxury bathrooms, smart home technology and other improvements may not always be covered in the way you expect.

In our latest article, we explore why understanding the difference between buildings insurance, contents insurance and leaseholder improvements could help avoid costly surprises after a claim.

Read the article below to learn more about protecting the full value of your home.

Luxury kitchens, bespoke interiors and high-end finishes can add significant value to a flat. Learn why reviewing your insurance arrangements is essential.

25/08/2026

How smart is your home?

From video doorbells and security cameras to smart heating and voice-controlled devices, connected technology is becoming an increasingly important part of modern living.

While these innovations offer convenience and control, they can also introduce new cyber risks if they're not properly secured.

In our latest article, we explore some of the most common smart home security risks and share practical steps homeowners can take to help protect their privacy, connected devices, and peace of mind.

Read the article and discover why physical and digital security now go hand in hand.

https://www.howdeninsurance.co.uk/private-client/news-and-views/smart-homes-and-cyber-risk-protecting-connected-living/

As homes become more connected, cyber risks are evolving. Explore practical protection measures and the role of Personal Cyber Insurance.

25/08/2026

💎 Lab-grown diamonds are changing the jewellery market. But what does that mean for jewellery owners?

As lab-grown diamonds become more widely available and natural diamond prices continue to evolve, the value of jewellery is becoming more complex. Some pieces may have increased in value, whilst others may not be worth what they once were for insurance purposes.

Whether you own a diamond engagement ring, inherited jewellery, or a collection of designer pieces from brands such as Cartier, Tiffany & Co. or Van Cleef & Arpels, an up-to-date valuation can help ensure your insurance reflects current replacement costs and that you're not underinsured or paying for cover you no longer need.

Read our latest article to learn why regular jewellery valuations have never been more important.

https://www.howdeninsurance.co.uk/private-client/risk-management/lab-grown-diamonds-and-the-changing-jewellery-market/

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Lab-grown diamonds are reshaping the jewellery market. Discover why accurate valuations matter more than ever.

24/08/2026

Are luxury handbags becoming the new collectibles?

The sale of Jane Birkin's original Hermès Birkin bag for £7.48 million has reinforced the growing appeal of luxury handbags as collectible assets.

From Hermès and Chanel to Bottega Veneta, rising values, changing trends and renewed demand for vintage pieces are reshaping the market. But as collections grow in value, owners should also think about valuations, security and protecting their investment.

Read our latest article exploring:

✔ The trend towards well-loved and personalised handbags
✔ Why values continue to rise
✔ The importance of regular valuations
✔ Practical tips to help protect your collection

Read more: https://www.howdeninsurance.co.uk/private-client/news-and-views/jane-birkinification-the-latest-vintage-handbag-trend/

Luxury handbags are rising in value. Explore vintage handbag trends, valuations and insurance considerations.

21/08/2026

Not long to go until this year's Scone Palace International Horse Trials!

Sponsoring for a second year, Howden is looking forward to welcoming visitors to see them at Stand 5. With specialists from their Rural, Private Client and Equine teams attending, it's a great opportunity to meet the team and learn more about how they support clients across the region.

Be sure to stop by and say hello.