Does Homeowners Insurance Cover Theft From Car?
Homeowners insurance may cover items stolen from your car, but it does not cover damage to the car itself. For vehicle damage, you’ll need comprehensive auto insurance.
When you park your car in your driveway or garage, the last thing you expect is for it to be broken into or for valuables to be stolen from it. But if this happens, you might wonder, does your homeowners insurance cover theft from your car?
While car insurance is the go-to coverage for theft or damage to your vehicle, homeowners insurance could offer some protection in certain situations. With over 20 years of experience in the insurance industry, I can guide you through how your homeowners insurance might help and what it typically doesn’t cover when it comes to theft from your car.
Key Takeaways
Homeowners insurance usually includes off-premises coverage, which helps protect personal items stolen from your car.
If someone breaks into your car and steals things like clothing, jewelry, or gifts, your personal property coverage can help.
Typically, your insurance will cover up to 10% of your personal property limit for items stolen away from your home, such as from your car.
Some high-value items like expensive jewelry or artwork may not be covered under your regular homeowners policy. To protect these items, you may need additional coverage.
Does Homeowners Insurance Cover Theft From Car?
Yes, homeowners insurance typically covers personal belongings stolen from your car, thanks to something called off-premises personal property coverage. However, it’s important to understand what is, and isn’t, included.
When Does Homeowners Insurance Cover Theft From Car?
Homeowners insurance may cover stolen items from your car — but not always. It depends on your policy’s personal property and off-premises coverage, and the circumstances of the theft.
Off Premise Coverage
Homeowners insurance includes “off-premises” protection, which covers personal items outside your home — including in your car. Typically, this is capped at 10% of your total personal property limit.
Example: If your policy insures $30,000 in personal property, you’d get up to $3,000 for items stolen from your car.
Personal Property Coverage
Most homeowners policies cover personal belongings like electronics, clothing, or luggage — even if they’re stolen from your car. This coverage is subject to your deductible and policy limits.
Theft From Locked Vehicle
Many insurers may require proof that your vehicle was locked when the theft occurred. If you left it unlocked, your claim might be denied. Always file a police report and take photos if you plan to submit a claim.
When Does Homeowners Insurance Not Cover Theft From Car?
While homeowners insurance often covers stolen items from your car, there are several situations where it won’t apply. Here are the most common exclusions:
Unlocked Car
If your car was left unlocked or a window was rolled down, your insurer may deny the claim, citing negligence. Always lock your vehicle and keep valuables out of sight.
Damage To The Vehicle
Homeowners insurance doesn’t cover damage to the car itself. If a thief damages your vehicle while stealing from it, you will need to file a claim with your car insurance, not your homeowners insurance.
High-Value Items Without a Rider
Expensive items like jewelry, professional equipment, or high-end electronics may exceed your policy’s off-premises limits. Without an endorsement (a.k.a. a scheduled personal property rider), you may not be fully reimbursed.
Intentional or Fraudulent Acts
If someone in your household stages a theft or deliberately causes damage, your insurer will not cover the loss. Fraudulent claims can also result in policy cancellation or legal action.
Theft Outside Policy Territory
Most homeowners policies cover theft within the U.S.. Theft in international locations may not be covered unless specified.
Homeowners Vs Auto Insurance: Which Policy Covers The Issue?
| Item Stolen Or Damaged | Covered By |
| Personal items in car (laptop, clothing) | Homeowners (off-premises) |
| Damage to car door/window | Auto (comprehensive) |
| Car itself stolen | Auto (comprehensive) |
How To File A Claim For Theft From Car
If your personal items are stolen from your vehicle, here’s how to file a homeowners insurance claim quickly and correctly:
Document the Theft
Take clear photos of the car’s damage (e.g., broken window or lock) and make a detailed list of all stolen belongings. Include purchase receipts or estimated values if available. Gather any additional evidence such as surveillance footage or witness contact details.
File a Police Report
Report the theft to your local police department as soon as possible. Insurers will typically require a copy of the police report before processing your claim.
Notify Your Insurance Company
Contact your homeowners or renters insurance provider, not your auto insurer (unless the car itself was damaged). Submit all documentation, including the police report, photos, and inventory of stolen items.
Pay Your Deductible
If your claim is approved, you’ll need to pay your policy’s deductible. Your insurer will then reimburse you for covered losses — up to your policy’s off-premises personal property limit.
Note: Filing a claim for theft from your car may not always be a good idea. While it might seem like a quick fix, it can lead to higher premiums in the future. Additionally, after factoring in your deductible, you may receive only a small payout, which could make it more cost-effective to pay for the loss out of pocket.
How To Prevent Theft From Your Car
While insurance may help after a theft, it’s always best to prevent one in the first place. Here are some effective ways to protect your car and the items inside it:
1. Always Lock Your Car
Even if you’re stepping away for just a minute, always lock the doors and close the windows. Unlocked cars are easy targets for thieves.
2. Hide Valuables from Sight
Avoid leaving items like phones, laptops, bags, or wallets visible. Store them in the glove box, trunk, or take them with you.
3. Park in Safe, Well-Lit Areas
Choose parking spots in busy, well-lit areas where there’s more visibility and foot traffic. Thieves prefer isolated and dark locations.
4. Use a Car Alarm or Steering Wheel Lock
A car alarm system can scare off intruders, while a steering wheel lock acts as a strong visual deterrent. For extra protection, consider a GPS tracking device.
5. Don’t Leave Spare Keys in or Around the Vehicle
Thieves know to check common hiding spots like under the wheel well or in the bumper. Keep spare keys with you or in a secure location at home.
FAQs
Does homeowners insurance cover theft of items from my car?
Yes, homeowners insurance may cover personal items stolen from your car—but only through off-premises personal property coverage. This typically includes things like electronics or clothing, up to 10% of your total personal property limit. Always check your policy for exact limits and exclusions.
Will homeowners insurance cover damage to my car if it's broken into?
No, homeowners insurance won’t cover damage to your car from a break-in. For that, you’ll need comprehensive auto insurance, which covers non-collision damage like theft, vandalism, or broken windows.
Does homeowners insurance cover stolen high-value items from my car?
Homeowners insurance may cover high-value items like jewelry or electronics stolen from your car, but they might require additional coverage or an endorsement. Standard policies often have limits on the amount they will cover for valuable items, so it’s important to check if you need extra protection.
Sources
⇅- Insurance Information Institute – Homeowners insurance basics
- Council On Criminal Justice – Trends in Motor Vehicle Theft: What You Need to Know
