How to Report a Burglary to Your Insurance Company

Being a victim of burglary is an unnerving experience, but it's important to stay calm and report the crime immediately. Here is the procedure for reporting this crime against your property to your insurance company.

Instructions

Difficulty: Moderate

1. First report the burglary to your local police department. If you believe the perpetrator is still in the area, call 911. If you discover a burglary when the perpetrator is long gone, call your local non-emergency number. Note the police's incident report number for future reference with your insurance company.
2. Call your insurance agent--or, if available, the 24-hour hotline for your insurer--to make a claim on stolen or damaged items. This call should be placed immediately after receiving the police incident report number.
3. Speak with your insurance agent or a representative about the incident in detail, including the manner in which the burglar entered your home.
4. Make a list of any damaged items or property and videotape or photograph them before repairing the items. This will give you concrete proof of all damages during the claims process.
5. Seek help from the National Center for Victims of Crime (see Resources below). They will give you referrals to local organizations where you can learn more about your rights and options.
6. Follow up with the police department if you haven't heard anything within a week. Some police departments look upon property crimes as less important than assault or other violent crimes.

Tips & Warnings

• Use the resources of the responding police officer to help you during the burglary reporting process. While the police officer is writing his report, give as much detailed information as possible so your insurance company has all the pertinent facts.
• As a victim of burglary you have the right to receive notification of any upcoming court proceedings that pertain to the crime.