Theft and vandalism property insurance claims
Preserve incident, inventory, repair, and insurer records without entering an unsafe property or exposing sensitive details.
Address immediate safety and reporting
If a crime is in progress or someone is at risk, contact emergency services. Do not confront an intruder or enter an unsafe building. Follow law-enforcement instructions and preserve the incident or report number when available.
Build a careful inventory
List missing or damaged items with the best available description, ownership documentation, purchase records, serial numbers, and pre-loss photos. Distinguish confirmed missing property from items not yet located. Keep sensitive records secure rather than publishing them in a directory review.
Document physical damage and temporary security
Photograph entry damage, broken fixtures, and affected areas when permitted and safe. Save emergency lock, board-up, cleanup, repair, and replacement records. Ask your insurer about inspection and evidence-preservation requirements before discarding damaged items.
Understand limits and representation
Different property categories may have sublimits, valuation rules, exclusions, or documentation requirements. Commercial equipment and inventory may involve additional records. Ask the insurer for written explanations and confirm a claims professional's relevant experience, state authority, scope, and fees. This is general information, not legal advice or a promise of payment.
Source references
Explore related losses
Educational information, not legal advice or a coverage determination.
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