--- title: Vandalism description: Learn what to do after vandalism damage, including filing a police report, documenting broken windows, graffiti, and property damage, and submitting an insurance claim. --- [Skip to content](https://support.loti.com/vandalism#main-content) - [Main](https://loti.com/) - [Learn](https://loti.com/learn) Open main navigation Close main navigation - [Main](https://loti.com/) - [Learn](https://loti.com/learn) - [Contact us](https://loti.com/contact) [Contact us](https://loti.com/contact) How can we help? - There are no suggestions because the search field is empty. 1. [Loti](https://support.loti.com/?hsLang=en-us) 2. [Incidents & Perils](https://support.loti.com/incidents-perils?hsLang=en-us) June 22, 2026 # Vandalism ## What to Do After Vandalism: Step-by-Step Insurance Process Discovering your home has been vandalized can be a distressing experience. Whether it’s broken windows, graffiti, or intentional property damage, knowing how to navigate the insurance claims process can help you repair and recover efficiently. This step-by-step guide outlines what to do and how to work with your insurance company when vandalism occurs. ---   **Step 1: Ensure Safety and Assess the Damage** Your first priority is safety and assessing the extent of the vandalism: 1. **Check for Immediate Threats:** Ensure vandals are no longer on your property and call the police if you feel unsafe. 2. **Avoid Touching Anything:** Leave damaged areas undisturbed to preserve evidence. 3. **Inspect for Hazards:** Look for broken glass, exposed wiring, or other safety risks. **Tip:** If your property has been vandalized, call the police right away to file a report. ---   **Step 2: Contact the Police and File a Report** A police report is essential for your insurance claim. When the police arrive: - Provide a detailed description of the incident, including what was damaged or stolen. - Share any evidence, such as surveillance footage or witness accounts. - Request a **copy of the police report** or the report number. **Tip:** Filing a police report as soon as possible ensures the incident is documented for insurance purposes. ---   **Step 3: Document the Damage** Before making any repairs, thoroughly document the vandalism to support your insurance claim: - **Take Photos and Videos:** Capture clear images of all damage, including broken windows, graffiti, or destroyed property. - **Make a List of Damaged Items:** Include descriptions, estimated values, and purchase dates for any vandalized or stolen property. - **Collect Receipts or Proof of Ownership:** If you have receipts, warranties, or appraisals, include these as evidence. **Tip:** Keep multiple copies of your documentation to share with your insurance adjuster. ---   **Step 4: Notify Your Homeowners Insurance Company** Contact your homeowners insurance provider as soon as possible to report the vandalism. Provide the following information: - The police report number or a copy of the report. - Photos and videos of the damage. - A detailed list of all vandalized or stolen items. **What Happens Next:** - The insurer will open a claim and assign a claims adjuster to assess the damage. - You will receive instructions on next steps, including securing temporary repairs. **Tip:** Many insurers allow claims to be reported online or via mobile apps for quicker processing. ---   **Step 5: Prevent Further Damage (Temporary Repairs)** Take temporary steps to prevent the damage from worsening or leaving your home vulnerable. Common actions include: - Boarding up broken windows or doors. - Covering damaged areas with tarps to protect against weather. - Securing valuables or access points if locks are broken. **Tip:** Keep all receipts for temporary repairs, as these costs may be reimbursed under your policy. ---   **Step 6: Work with the Insurance Adjuster** Your insurance company will assign a claims adjuster to inspect the damage and determine the extent of coverage. Be prepared to: - Walk the adjuster through the damaged areas, pointing out specific vandalism. - Share documentation, including photos, videos, and police reports. - Provide repair or replacement estimates from contractors, if applicable. **What the Adjuster Will Do:** - Evaluate the cost of repairs or replacements. - Confirm whether the vandalism is covered under your homeowners policy. - Provide a claim settlement estimate based on your coverage limits. **Tip:** If you disagree with the adjuster’s findings, you can request a second opinion or hire a public adjuster to advocate on your behalf. ---   **Step 7: Review Your Coverage and Settlement** Understand how your insurance policy applies to vandalism: - **Dwelling Coverage:** Pays for repairs to your home’s structure (e.g., walls, windows, or doors). - **Personal Property Coverage:** Covers vandalized, damaged, or stolen personal belongings. - **Additional Living Expenses (ALE):** Pays for temporary housing and meals if the home is uninhabitable. - **Deductible:** Remember, you are responsible for paying the deductible before coverage kicks in. **Tip:** Review the adjuster’s settlement offer to ensure it covers all damages. If additional repairs are needed, notify your insurer promptly. ---   **Step 8: Hire Contractors and Begin Repairs** Once your claim is approved, you can begin repairs: 1. **Hire Licensed Contractors:** Use contractors approved by your insurer or submit quotes from trusted professionals. 2. **Repair Structural Damage:** Fix broken windows, doors, walls, or graffiti. 3. **Replace Damaged Property:** Replace or repair vandalized furniture, appliances, or electronics. **Tip:** Save all receipts and invoices for repairs and replacements to share with your insurance company for reimbursement. ---   **Step 9: Monitor the Claims Process** Stay in touch with your insurance company and contractors throughout the process: - Track all communications, including emails and phone calls. - Follow up on timelines for repairs and reimbursements. - Notify your insurer of any new or overlooked damage discovered during repairs. **Tip:** Keep a copy of the final settlement and all related documentation for future reference. ---   **Step 10: Take Preventative Measures Against Future Vandalism** Once your home is restored, take steps to protect your property from future vandalism: - **Install Security Systems:** Cameras, alarms, and motion-sensor lights can deter vandals. - **Secure Access Points:** Reinforce doors, windows, and fences. - **Maintain Outdoor Lighting:** Well-lit properties are less likely to be targeted. - **Work with Neighbors:** Join or start a neighborhood watch program. **Tip:** Updating your security measures may help reduce insurance premiums and strengthen your claim process in the future. ---   **Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)** **1. Does homeowners insurance cover vandalism?** Yes, most standard homeowners insurance policies cover vandalism, including structural damage, graffiti, and personal property damage. **2. Will my insurance cover stolen property?** Yes, personal property coverage can reimburse you for stolen items caused by vandalism or break-ins, subject to your coverage limits. **3. What if I don’t have a police report?** A police report is typically required to file a vandalism claim. If you haven’t reported the incident yet, contact the police immediately. **4. Will filing a vandalism claim increase my insurance premiums?** Filing a claim may lead to higher premiums at renewal, depending on your claims history and insurer’s policies. **5. What if I don’t agree with the adjuster’s settlement offer?** You can request a reassessment, provide independent repair estimates, or hire a public adjuster to advocate for a fair settlement. ---   **Final Thoughts** Dealing with vandalism can be overwhelming, but understanding the insurance claims process can help you restore your property quickly and efficiently. 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