Home Burgled? Here’s What Your Insurance Will (and Won’t) Cover

No one wants to imagine their home being broken into or their belongings stolen—but unfortunately, theft and burglary remain common risks for homeowners. The good news? Most standard homeowners insurance policies do offer protection against theft. However, understanding what is and isn’t covered—and how much—can help you avoid unpleasant surprises when you file a claim.
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In this article, we break down how homeowners insurance handles theft and burglary, what to expect in terms of coverage, and what steps you should take if your home is targeted.

What Is Theft and Burglary Coverage in Homeowners Insurance?
Standard homeowners insurance typically includes coverage for theft or burglary under the personal property protection portion of the policy. This means it covers:

• Stolen personal belongings (e.g., electronics, jewelry, appliances, cash, and clothing)
  
  
• Damage to your home caused during a break-in (e.g., broken windows, forced doors)
  
  
• Theft from outbuildings like garages or sheds, in some cases

Your policy may also cover items stolen from your car, depending on the situation—but the car itself would be covered under auto insurance.


What’s Covered: A Quick Breakdown
Here’s what homeowners insurance typically does cover when it comes to theft:
1. Stolen Personal Property

• Furniture, clothing, electronics, tools, etc.
• Items taken during a break-in or from your yard

2. Vandalism or Damage During Burglary

• Broken locks, windows, doors, or other structural damage

3. Theft Outside the Home

• Belongings stolen from a storage unit, hotel, or your car (with limitations)

4. Belongings of Family Members

• Coverage may extend to children living away at college

What Isn’t Covered or Has Limitations?
While theft coverage is included, there are some limits and exclusions you need to be aware of:
1. Policy Limits on High-Value Items

• Items like jewelry, art, collectibles, and firearms may have caps (e.g., $1,500 for jewelry)
• You may need scheduled personal property coverage to insure these items fully

3. No Coverage for Renter’s Belongings

• If you’re renting out part of your home, your tenant’s items are not covered

4. No Coverage for Unforced Entry

• If there's no sign of forced entry, your claim may be disputed unless there's evidence of theft

4. Home Sharing Exceptions

• Theft during short-term rentals (like Airbnb) may not be covered unless you have specific endorsements

Always review the "special limits of liability" section of your policy to understand caps on valuable items.


How to File a Theft Claim: Step-by-Step
If your home is broken into or items are stolen, follow these steps to ensure a smoother claim process:

• Report the Theft to the Police
  Get a copy of the police report—your insurer will require this
  
  
• Take Photos of Any Damage
  Document broken windows, doors, or any physical entry points
  
  
• List Stolen Items
  Provide make, model, serial numbers, and estimated value of missing items
  
  
• Contact Your Insurance Company
  Start the claims process as soon as possible—some companies allow online reporting
  
  
• Provide Proof of Ownership
  Receipts, photos, or appraisals help validate high-value claims
  
  
• Secure Your Home
  Make necessary repairs to prevent further damage or unauthorized access

Tips to Maximize Your Theft Coverage
To better protect your belongings and ensure full reimbursement in the event of theft, consider the following:

• Create a Home Inventory
  Maintain a detailed list of all valuables with photos and receipts
  
  
• Update Your Coverage Limits
  If you’ve recently purchased high-value items, talk to your agent about coverage increases
  
  
• Install Security Systems
  Some insurers offer discounts for burglar alarms, cameras, and smart locks
  
  
• Add Scheduled Personal Property Coverage
  Get full protection for jewelry, heirlooms, and other expensive belongings

Conclusion: Yes, You’re Likely Covered—But Know the Details
Homeowners insurance does cover theft and burglary, but the key to full protection is knowing your policy inside and out. Don’t assume everything is covered or that you’ll be reimbursed for full value without reviewing your limits and exclusions.

To recap:

• Theft is covered under the personal property portion of your policy
• Damage from break-ins is typically covered under dwelling protection
• Valuable items may require extra endorsements
• Documentation and home security help during the claims process

Peace of mind starts with being informed. Take the time to review your policy or speak with your agent to ensure you're fully protected against theft.

At Cordell & Company Insurance Agency , we put our clients first by offering them policies that they can afford. Having insurance is a necessity nowadays, and we're here to help you out. Learn more about our products and services by calling our agency at (817) 924-4236​. You can also request a free quote by CLICKING HERE. 

Disclaimer: The information presented in this blog is intended for informational purposes only and should not be considered as professional advice. It is crucial to consult with a qualified insurance agent or professional for personalized advice tailored to your specific circumstances. They can provide expert guidance and help you make informed decisions regarding your insurance needs.