Cheap Phone Insurance UK for Used Phones: A Practical Guide to Protecting Second-Hand Devices

Buying a used phone is one of the smartest ways to save money in the UK, especially now that even mid-range smartphones can cost upwards of £400 new. But there’s one thing many people forget until it’s too late: insurance. A cracked screen, a stolen phone on the train, or an accidental drop in the sink can instantly turn a “great deal” into an expensive headache.

The good news? You can get cheap phone insurance in the UK specifically tailored for used and refurbished devices, and it usually costs far less than the insurance sold at checkout when buying a new smartphone. What matters is choosing the right level of cover and making sure the provider actually accepts pre-owned devices (not all do).

Is Phone Insurance Worth It for a Used Phone?

Many people assume insurance is only useful for brand-new iPhones or premium Samsung models. But used devices get damaged just as easily—sometimes more easily because previous wear can make them slightly more fragile.

Insurance is worth considering if:

• Your phone is worth more than £120–£150.
• You use it daily for work where accidents are more likely.
• You rely heavily on navigation, messaging, delivery apps, or mobile payments.
• Your phone model has expensive parts (e.g., OLED displays, multiple cameras).
• You often travel or commute through busy city areas where theft is more common.

If your phone is only worth £60–£80, self-insuring (putting aside a little money each month) might make more sense. But for mid-range or flagship models bought second-hand, a low-cost monthly insurance plan can genuinely pay off after just one accident.

What Counts as a “Used Phone” for Insurance Providers?

Different insurers in the UK have slightly different definitions. Generally, a used phone is:

• A device purchased second-hand from CEX, MusicMagpie, Amazon Renewed, Back Market, or Facebook Marketplace.
• A refurbished handset that’s been restored by a retailer or manufacturer.
• A phone more than 30 days old when you apply for insurance.

Some insurers require proof of purchase showing the device’s IMEI number, while others simply ask for photos of its condition during sign-up. Always check this before buying a policy.

How Cheap is Cheap? Typical Prices in the UK

If you’ve only seen the prices offered by retailers when buying new devices, you’ll be pleasantly surprised. Independent insurance providers often charge significantly less.

Typical monthly premiums:

• £2–£3/month — older used Android phones worth under £150
• £4–£6/month — refurbished iPhones, Samsung Galaxy A-series, Xiaomi mid-range models
• £6–£9/month — used flagships (iPhone 12/13, Galaxy S21/S22, Google Pixel Pro models)

The key is checking what you actually get for the price, because “cheap” doesn’t always mean “good value”. Some policies exclude accidental damage unless you pay extra.

What Should UK Buyers Look for in Cheap Used-Phone Insurance?

When comparing providers, focus on the essentials rather than getting distracted by marketing buzzwords.

1. Accidental Damage Cover

This is the number one reason people insure used phones. Screens, charging ports, and camera lenses are expensive to replace—sometimes half the cost of your device.

2. Liquid Damage Cover

Not all cheap policies include this by default. Yet water damage is one of the most common insurance claims, especially in the UK where rainy days and slippery commutes are a daily reality.

3. Theft Cover (Optional)

Some of the cheapest plans exclude theft. If you work in busy areas like London, Manchester, or Birmingham—or frequently use your phone on public transport—adding theft cover is sensible and usually adds £1–£2 per month.

4. Excess Fees

A policy might cost only £3 a month but charge £125 excess for repairs. Always compare these fees before choosing what looks like the “cheapest” option.

5. Refurbished/Used Device Eligibility

This is essential. Some UK providers only insure devices up to 12 months old. Others allow older handsets as long as they’re fully working and not already damaged.

Where to Find Cheap Phone Insurance in the UK for Used Devices

Without naming specific brands, here are the types of insurers to check:

• Independent online insurers — usually the cheapest.
• Specialist gadget insurers — cover phones, laptops, tablets, and cameras.
• Bank account upgrades — some UK banks include phone insurance with their packaged accounts.
• Retailers like CEX or Back Market — offer affordable protection plans specifically for refurbished phones.

If buying a used phone online, always compare third-party insurance before accepting the retailer's own plan. Some retailers charge more for less coverage.

Tips to Save Even More on Used-Phone Insurance

1. Pay Annually Instead of Monthly

Many providers offer a 10–15% discount when paying upfront.

2. Skip Theft Cover if You Don’t Need It

If you mostly work from home or rarely take your phone out, accidental-only coverage may be enough.

3. Check If Your Home Insurance Already Covers Mobiles

Some UK home-contents policies include “personal possessions cover” for devices outside the home. Just check the excess—it's often £100 or more.

4. Compare Excess Fees Carefully

A slightly higher monthly cost but much lower excess often saves money when you actually need a repair.

5. Ensure The Provider Covers Older Used Phones

If your phone is more than three years old, double-check age limits before buying a policy.

Common Mistakes UK Buyers Make

1. Choosing the Cheapest Plan Without Reading the Details

Some of the lowest-priced policies exclude accidental damage entirely, which defeats the purpose for most used-phone owners.

2. Not Keeping Proof of Purchase

If you bought your used phone from a private seller, make sure you can prove ownership—IMEI number, purchase messages, or a receipt if possible.

3. Ignoring Water Damage Exclusions

Avoid any plan that doesn’t cover liquid damage unless your phone is always in a rugged case.

4. Forgetting to Update the Insurer When You Upgrade

If you buy a new used phone later, update your policy immediately to avoid invalid cover.

Final Thoughts: How to Choose the Best Cheap Insurance for a Used Phone

Cheap phone insurance in the UK can be excellent value as long as you choose a policy that actually covers your needs. Prioritise accidental damage, check the excess fees, confirm that refurbished devices are allowed, and make sure theft protection is included if you regularly travel through busy areas.

Used phones offer fantastic value, and a low-cost insurance plan can help keep them running for years without unexpected repair bills. Whether you’re using a refurbished iPhone, a budget Samsung, a second-hand Xiaomi, or a mid-range Pixel, the right protection plan can turn a good deal into a long-term investment.