A guide to burglary, theft and vandalism claims: what policies typically cover, the limits that often apply, and how to document stolen and damaged property.
A break-in or act of vandalism is stressful on its own, and the insurance claim adds a second challenge: proving what was taken or damaged and what it was worth. Theft and vandalism (sometimes called "malicious mischief") are covered perils in most homeowners and commercial property policies, but special limits, vacancy rules and documentation requirements often decide how much is paid.
Visible damage includes broken doors, locks and windows, missing belongings and graffiti.
Hidden or easy-to-miss damage includes:
Depending on your policy, theft and vandalism coverage typically includes:
See our glossary for common policy terms.
Theft claims usually require prompt notice to both police and the insurer. Policies typically require a sworn proof of loss within a set time after the insurer requests it, and many limit how long you have to file a lawsuit. Check your policy and ask your insurer to confirm deadlines in writing.
As licensed public adjusters, we work for you. On theft and vandalism claims we typically help build and value the inventory of stolen items, document break-in and vandalism damage, review the policy's limits and conditions, and negotiate with the insurer.
Learn more about our public adjusting services, or read what a public adjuster does.
Texas, Louisiana and Mississippi: Each state sets rules for how quickly insurers must acknowledge, investigate and pay claims. Police report and proof of loss requirements come from your policy. Rental and seasonal property owners should pay close attention to vacancy and occupancy conditions.
These notes are general. Your policy and current state law control.
Almost always. Most policies require you to notify the police promptly after a theft, and insurers typically ask for the report number.
Many policies have special limits for theft of jewelry, watches and similar items. Items scheduled separately on your policy are typically covered up to their scheduled value.
Many policies exclude vandalism and some theft if the building was vacant for more than a set period before the loss, often around 60 days. This is a common baseline only. Your policy may set a shorter vacancy period, so check your declarations and coverage form.
Other proof can help, such as bank or card statements, photos, videos, manuals, boxes and appraisals. Build the most detailed list you can.
Personal belongings stolen from a car are often covered under the personal property section of a homeowners or renters policy, subject to the deductible. The car itself and its permanently installed equipment are usually covered under auto insurance.
A simple, step-by-step way to create and update a home inventory now, so documenting your belongings is easier if a fire, storm, or leak happens.
Read articleNot every claim needs full public adjusting. Here's when a claim consultation can help you understand your policy, estimate, and next steps.
Read articleA plain-language guide to the declarations page of your homeowners policy: coverages, limits, deductibles, endorsements, and what to check each year.
Read articleTalk with a licensed public adjuster about stolen property or break-in damage. We can review your policy and help organize your claim.
We work for policyholders, not insurance companies. Contact us to talk through your claim and your policy. Call 877-5APC-247 (877-527-2247) or email claims@allperils.com.
This guide is general information, not legal advice. Every claim is different, and coverage depends on your policy language, the facts of your loss and current state law. All Perils Consulting is a public adjusting firm licensed in Texas (#3296354) and Louisiana (#1207216); Mississippi claims are handled under Barry Van Shoubrouek's individual public adjuster license (#10768959). We are public adjusters, not attorneys. For legal questions, consult a licensed attorney.