Extra insurance to cover satellite TV systems may be unnecessary and expensive, the Office of Fair Trading has warned.
The consumer watchdog has been contacted by several individuals who have received letters asking customers to renew policies that may not exist.
Other types of correspondence, either from agents or from the satellite providers themselves, suggest that customers need to take out further insurance.
The OFT has asked consumers to think carefully before proceeding. The first thing to consider, they say, is whether the customer has ever had a policy of this kind.
These items might also be covered by any existing home contents policies - always check with insurers to make sure.
It’s also important to know the value of any equipment - the OFT have said that the annual premium of an insurance policy might not be much less than the cost of replacing or repairing it.
They have also warned consumers to not give away financial details to prospective insurers until they have taken the above steps.
Andrea Tabb of the OFT said:‘If you feel you need this type of insurance, shop around and ask for quotations from local providers.
‘And if you would like to speak to someone about correspondence or calls you have received, you can speak to one of our consumer advisers on 686500.’