Brits have spent more than £3 billion on fixing or replacing broken gadgets in the last five years, a new UK study has revealed.
A survey of 2,000 homeowners commissioned by TSB Insurance found that eight million mobile phones have been damaged in the last five years, making them the most likely gadget to meet an accidental end.
Head of TSB Insurance, Kat Robinson, said: “Now more than ever we rely on our gadgets to get through the day, so it’s unfortunate when they are taken out of action unexpectedly.
“The time and expense of dealing with smashed screens, sizzled monitors and defective equipment is a major gripe that many of us are needlessly suffering because of having no insurance or picking inadequate protection.”
When asked to choose which gadget they consider most precious, a third of homeowners chose their mobile phone.
Water damage was shown to be the greatest phone-killer, accounting for 23 per cent of mobile phone insurance claims.
The research also revealed some unusual ways to destroy your digital appliances. One respondent claimed to have had their phone consumed by a horse, while another had it slip out of their hands into the toilet bowl while trying to take a selfie in the loo.
The study also revealed our typical ‘walking wealth’ – the cost of the gadgets that we carry around with us on a daily basis is, on average, £288 per person.
Three quarters of homeowners cover themselves with home and contents insurance, while just one in ten cover their gadgets as well. This is despite the average home containing over £2,500 worth of gadgets.
Ms Robinson added, “When it comes to insurance, having a flexible policy that works for you can really cut down on the hassle should you ever need to claim.
“Whether you want to protect the bricks and mortar of your home, the contents, or your latest piece of tech, it’s important to pick insurance cover that protects you and adapts to your needs.”
