3 Common Theft and Vandalism Claims Mistakes and How to Avoid Them

You never know when your home will be the target of mischievous thieves. Yet, when it does happen, you may not know how to file a claim for theft and vandalism and may even be too shocked to think clearly. Unfortunately, making mistakes when filing theft claims costs homeowners thousands of dollars each year.

So, to keep from adding insult to injury, here are three common errors people make while making their theft and vandalism insurance claims and how to avoid them.

What Qualifies as Theft and Vandalism to Submit a Claim?

Vandalism is “the willful destruction of property by a third party.” A third party refers to anyone not on your home insurance policy or an immediate family member. Theft is “the unlawful entry of a structure with the intent to commit a felony or theft.”

Insurance companies offer different coverage that includes:

• Dwelling - covers repair or replacement costs to your principal residence due to a break-in, theft, or vandalism.
• Personal Property - covers repair or replacement costs for damaged or stolen personal property within limitations.
• Other Structures - covers repair or replacement costs for detached buildings or fixtures on your property.

Your insurance policy will cover burglary, break and enter, and vandalism, but it is wise to know what is insured and what needs additional coverage. You will also want to consider your deductible and the limitations of payouts, so you have adequate insurance for all your valuables.

Mistake #1 - Filing Late

Insurance companies are pretty savvy and look for any questionable claims. Filing theft claims late is one of them. Homeowners may delay for several reasons, including worrying that making a claim will raise their insurance rates. 

Unfortunately, your hesitancy may result in a denied claim. Instead, deal with immediate tasks like calling the authorities, making police reports, and observing personal safety. Then, contact your insurance provider immediately afterward so they can begin the claim process with you. It will lead to speedier service and reimbursement.

Mistake #2 - Cleaning Up Right Away

It is maddening to come home and discover someone has ransacked your home. It is even traumatizing to know a stranger has violated your space with their hands on your belongings. Yet the biggest heartbreak is when your treasured valuables are missing.

For some homeowners, seeing the evidence of broken glass, damaged doors, or things thrown around a room sends them into clean-up mode to try and lessen the impact. Of course, broken glass poses a safety risk; however, cleaning up before the police or your adjuster can document the evidence is a mistake.

Mistake #3 - Filing Too Many Claims

Insurance providers extend policies to homeowners in good faith that they will make legitimate claims. Unfortunately, the result could be claim denials or, worse, your provider refusing to extend your policy.

To avoid this costly mistake, here are some valuable tips:

• Ensure you document all stolen and damaged property per incident rather than making multiple claims.
• In the case of repeated break-ins, provide police reports and proof of additional security measures, such as changing your locks and adding extra lighting and security cameras.
• Don’t make claims when the damages are less than your deductible.

Your claim history could remain on record for five or more years, depending on your insurance provider, so it’s essential to make intelligent, well-documented claims only when needed.

Get Professional Help to Maximize Your Claim

Making theft and vandalism claims is cumbersome and upsetting. To help you navigate the process and maximize your return, trust the experts at TSO Adjustment Service in Fort Washington, PA. They offer professional insurance adjustment services backed and licensed by the PA Insurance Department.

Get the highest insurance refund possible with the help of TSO! Schedule an appointment online or by calling the office at 215-886-7440 today!