Howden Private Clients

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.

12/08/2026

With the UK experiencing another summer of heatwaves and a rise in grass, wild and property fires, many homeowners are understandably paying closer attention to fire risks.

Recent reports highlighted a house fire in Farnborough believed to have been caused by sunlight reflecting from a mirror, a reminder that some hazards can come from surprisingly ordinary items around the home.

In our latest article, we explore how mirrors, glass ornaments and other reflective surfaces can, in certain circumstances, concentrate sunlight and create an unexpected fire risk, along with practical steps homeowners can take to help protect their property.

Read more: https://www.howdeninsurance.co.uk/private-client/risk-management/smoke-and-mirrors/

22/07/2026

💎⌚ Where do you keep your most valuable jewellery and watches?

Many people assume a home safe is the obvious answer. But depending on your lifestyle and the value of your collection, a bank deposit box or specialist private vault could be worth considering.

The right solution isn't just about security – it's about balancing protection, accessibility and insurance requirements.

In our latest article, we explore:

✔ The pros and cons of home safes
✔ When a bank deposit box or private vault may be appropriate
✔ How storage choices can affect your insurance
✔ Practical steps to help protect valuable jewellery and watch collections

Whether you own a treasured family heirloom, a luxury watch collection or investment pieces, taking the right precautions can help reduce risk and provide greater peace of mind.

Explore home safes and private vaults, and how to protect jewellery through the right mix of security, access and risk.

22/07/2026

⌚ Has your Rolex increased in value?

Rolex has announced its second price rise of 2026, with some models seeing significant increases in value.

If your watch hasn't been professionally valued for several years, there's a risk that your insurance may no longer reflect today's replacement costs.

Whether you own a single luxury watch or a wider collection, reviewing valuations regularly can help ensure your cover keeps pace with changing market values.

In our latest article, we explore:

✔ Why Rolex prices are rising
✔ The potential risk of underinsurance
✔ Why up-to-date valuations matter
✔ What collectors should consider when reviewing their cover

Read the article and find out more.

Rolex's latest price rises could leave high-value watch owners underinsured. Learn why regular valuations and insurance reviews are increasingly important.

15/07/2026

Could you spot the signs if your child was facing a problem online?

Online bullying, scams, hacked accounts and pressure to share personal information are just some of the challenges young people can face in today's digital world.

In our latest article, Steve Moores explores practical ways families can improve digital safety and support children in navigating life online with confidence.

📖 Read more: https://www.howdeninsurance.co.uk/private-client/news-and-views/protecting-your-family-in-a-digital-world/

Protect your family online with Personal Cyber insurance. Expert support for Private Clients navigating digital risks.

12/06/2026

Silver has long played second fiddle to gold – quietly sitting in sideboards and display cabinets. But with prices rising sharply, its value is starting to tell a different story.

For many clients, that shift raises an important question: is your cover keeping pace? Outdated valuations and underestimated collections can quickly create gaps – particularly for items that may have once seemed modest.

Our latest insight explores what the resurgence in silver means for collectors and homeowners, and why now may be the time to take stock.

If you’d prefer a conversation, we’re happy to guide you through valuations and how best to protect your collection.

Silver prices are rising fast. Could your valuables be underinsured? Why updated valuations and contents insurance matter.