Documentation
After a break-in or vandalism: steps for an insurance claim
What to do after a theft, break-in or vandalism at your Florida home or business, how to document it, and the policy limits that often apply.
By Ricardo Arevalo, Florida Public Adjuster · Published
Safety and the police first
If you return to a forced door or broken window, do not go inside until it is safe; call 911. Most policies require you to notify the police promptly in case of theft, so ask for the report number and the officer’s name. The police report is usually one of the first documents the insurer asks for.
Document before you clean up
Before repairing or tidying, record what you found:
- Photos and video of the point of entry, damaged locks, doors and windows
- Each room as you found it, including open drawers and empty shelves
- Graffiti, broken fixtures or other intentional damage
- Security camera footage, if you have it, saved to a separate device
Secure the property
Policies ask you to protect the property from further damage. Board up broken windows, change or repair locks and keep the receipts; reasonable emergency costs are often part of the claim. Keep damaged items until the insurer has had a chance to see or photograph them.
Build the list of what was taken
Write down each missing or damaged item with a description, brand, model, approximate age and value. Receipts, bank or card statements, photos, original boxes and a home inventory all help. Many policies set special theft limits for jewelry, watches, firearms, cash and similar items unless they are scheduled separately, so check your policy.
Vacancy and other conditions
Many policies exclude vandalism if the home was vacant for a set period, often more than 60 consecutive days, before the loss. Business properties may have their own security conditions. Read the conditions section, and if a claim is denied or underpaid, RicardoPA can review the decision and the documentation with you.
Frequently asked questions
Do I need a police report for a theft claim?
Most policies require you to notify the police promptly after a theft, and the insurer will usually ask for the report number.
Is vandalism covered by homeowners insurance?
Vandalism is commonly covered, but many policies exclude it if the home was vacant for an extended period before the loss, often more than 60 consecutive days.
Are stolen jewelry and cash fully covered?
Often not. Many policies have special limits for theft of jewelry, watches, firearms, cash and similar items unless they are scheduled separately.
General information only, based on Florida law at the date shown. It is not legal advice, and initial guidance does not replace an evaluation by a licensed public adjuster.
