Has someone scratched the entire side of your vehicle or smashed its windows? This is vandalism. Here’s what you need to know.
Coverage under your contract
Damage caused by vandalism is covered if you have added All Perils coverage or coverage against perils other than collision or upset to your policy (Section B of the policy).
Your insurer will compensate you within 60 days of receiving your claim and all supporting documentation. For a quick settlement, make sure you have all the necessary documents.
Your insurer will deduct the amount of your policy deductible from the compensation amount.
Have belongings been stolen from your car?
Has your car been vandalized and your laptop stolen? Your home insurance will compensate you for belongings stolen from your car. You’ll have to file two claims: one to your auto insurer to have your vehicle repaired and the other to your home insurer for the theft of your laptop.
Steps to follow
1. Get the police report
Take pictures of the damage and contact the police as soon as possible to report the vandalism and obtain a report number.
If you can’t obtain such a report from your local police, contact your insurer or broker directly.
2. Contact your insurer
Call your insurer or broker as soon as possible to provide them with the police report number.
3. Have the damage to the vehicle appraised
This step is necessary to establish the cost of repairs and the terms and conditions to have your vehicle repaired in accordance with current repair techniques.
4. Have the vehicle repaired
At this step, you and your insurer will determine where your vehicle will be repaired.
You may choose your own garage or go to one recommended by your insurer. If you choose the garage yourself, make sure it’s a good one and that the work is done in accordance with the specifications agreed upon with your insurer.
Depending on the agreement, your insurer may compensate you or reimburse the garage directly.
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