Fire Insurance marks

By William Gregory MRICS, Golding Young and Mawer.

Insurance valuations are an interesting part of the professional service department’s function. Clients are reminded of the importance of up-to-date valuations and also to read the small print in the documents.

Back in the 18th century, insurance companies not only provided the cover and paperwork but also a decorative plaque to be mounted on the insured property.

It had been thought that these plaques served as a confirmation to the fire brigade that the property was insured and that in the event of a fire it should be extinguished at the expense of the said insurance company. This theory has been disputed, and that the plaques served as an advertisement for the company and a confirmation of the status of the resident.

Today, the plaques have become much sought after collectors’ items and over 160 examples were offered recently at the Grantham Auction Rooms, making a total of over £9,000 which should assist at the next renewal date.

Examples are illustrated. Full details of the auction are available at www.goldingyoung.com

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