Is “Egging” Covered By Home Insurance?
Understanding Egging as Vandalism
In Texas, “egging” a home or vehicle is legally considered a form of vandalism or criminal mischief. This act involves purposely defacing or damaging someone’s property. Under Texas Penal Code §28.03, individuals who intentionally cause property damage—including staining paint, breaking windows, or harming surfaces—can face misdemeanor or even felony charges depending on the extent of the damage. What might seem like a prank can quickly turn into a serious legal issue with real financial consequences.
Homeowners Insurance and Vandalism Coverage
The good news for property owners is that most standard homeowners' insurance policies cover vandalism, including egging incidents. The coverage typically falls under the dwelling protection portion of your policy. This helps pay for repairs to your property’s exterior, siding, or windows. If personal property, such as outdoor decorations or furniture, was damaged, your personal property coverage might also apply. However, your insurer will likely require proof of the incident and an estimate of repair costs before approving a claim.
When Vehicle Damage Is Involved
If your car was egged instead of your home, the claim would typically fall under your auto insurance policy, not homeowners' insurance. Comprehensive auto coverage—which protects against theft, vandalism, and weather damage—would cover egging incidents. Without this coverage, vehicle owners may need to pay for repairs out of pocket, even if the damage was caused by someone else’s misconduct.
Filing a Claim for Egging Damage
If your property or vehicle has been egged, it’s imperative to act quickly. You can start by documenting the damage with pictures and videos before cleaning. File a police report to establish an official record of the vandalism, which your insurance provider may require. Then, contact your insurance provider to start the claims process and provide any requested documentation or repair estimates.
While egging may seem like a harmless prank, it can cause lasting property damage and cost homeowners hundreds of dollars to fix. Fortunately, having the right insurance coverage can help you recover quickly and avoid paying out of pocket for someone else’s mischief.
