3 Tips for Protecting Your Art Collection

When you think of art theft you probably envision an action movie where a thief is repelling from the ceiling and dodging red laser sensors. However, according to the FBI, 52% of art thefts in the United States happen in people’s homes.

That is why it is important to take the precautionary steps to protect your home from art theft. Here are 3 tips on how you can better protect yourself.

1. Take Stock

If stolen art is recovered, you need to be able to prove that you are in fact the owner. Having the following information could prove helpful during this process.

• Bills of Sale from where the piece was purchased
• Photograph of piece
• A description of each piece (including the name)
• Artist name
• Acquisition date
• Where and from whom it was purchased
• Purchase price
• Condition
• Physical location
• Measurements

2. Tag your Pieces

RFID are becoming a common tool for keeping track of products in a commercial environment. However you can also use them in your home to protect your art. An RFID is placed directly on the objects you want to protect, and if the object is moved, an alarm will be triggered and transmitted. And no, you won’t trigger the alarm every time you feel like redecorating or rearranging your living spaces.

3. Invest in Home Security

In an article for Forbes, art expert Danielle Rham explains how important it is to use technology to your advantage if you have an art collection. She writes, “I am frequently called by clients who have had a theft, or even simply misplaced art, silver and decorative objects, [which is] worth a considerable investment in preventative technology.”

One of the easiest ways to invest in security technology is place a modern, customizable home security system into your home. Honeywell’s Lyric system for example, lets you monitor your home while you are away, has wireless entry sensors, motion sensors and glass break sensors. All of which can be used in ways to protect your prized possessions.