Yes — vandalism is covered under COMPREHENSIVE insurance. This includes keyed cars, broken windows, slashed tires, and stolen catalytic converters. No fault, rate usually doesn’t increase. Police report required for claims over $500.
Coverage Scenarios
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| Scenario | Coverage |
|---|---|
| Keyed / scratched paint | Comprehensive — deductible applies |
| Broken windows | Comprehensive — often $0 deductible for glass |
| Slashed tires | Comprehensive — deductible applies |
| Stolen catalytic converter | Comprehensive — deductible applies |
| Broken mirrors from vandalism | Comprehensive — deductible applies |
| Full paint job vandalism | Comprehensive — often high cost |
| Interior vandalism | Comprehensive if forced entry |
| Vandalism as part of theft attempt | Comprehensive |
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- Report vandalism to police within 24 hours
- Get police report copy for insurance
- Document damage with photos from multiple angles
- Note the time, date, and location where you last parked
- Check nearby security cameras (businesses, homes with Ring/Nest)
- Contact insurance within 24-48 hours
- Windshield glass typically has $0 deductible in most states
Should You File the Claim?
For comprehensive claims (no-fault), filing is almost always the right move — no rate increase in most states. For collision claims, do the math: if damage is under 2x your deductible + $1,000, pay out of pocket.
Frequently Asked Questions
Does vandalism raise my insurance rate?
In most states, comprehensive claims (like vandalism) don’t raise rates. Check your specific state’s regulations.
Do I need a police report for vandalism?
Yes for claims over $500. Some insurers require police reports for any vandalism claim.
What if I don’t know when the vandalism happened?
Report when you notice it. Insurance will accept ‘discovered on [date]’ claims.
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