How to File a Vandalism Claim After Halloween

Reports show that vandalism claims are 34% higher after Halloween. If you woke up on November 1 to egged siding, smashed pumpkins, or a keyed car, a clear process will protect your claim. Here is how to handle it.

Document Before You Clean

Photograph and video all the damage before you touch anything, using wide shots and close-ups. Walk through it on video and narrate what you see. Make a list of damaged items with estimated values. Egg is easier to remove when fresh, so take your photos first, then do emergency cleanup to prevent staining or further damage, and keep receipts for supplies you buy.

File a Police Report

Call your local police department, even if the damage seems minor. Insurers typically require a report number to process vandalism claims. Write down the officer’s name and the case number, and request a copy of the report. Filing a vandalism claim without notifying police can raise suspicion about whether the loss is legitimate.

Do the Deductible Math First

Before you call your insurer, check your deductible. Vandalism payouts are the repair cost minus your deductible, so a $300 cleanup against a $2,500 deductible pays nothing. Texas generally prohibits insurers from penalizing policyholders for weather-related claims, but vandalism claims are recorded in your claims history, so weigh whether a small claim is worth filing. Get a repair estimate from a licensed contractor to compare against your deductible.

File Separate Claims for Home and Car

Your home and car are covered under different policies. Vandalism to your house, fence, or outdoor decorations goes to your homeowners insurer. Damage to your vehicle goes to your auto insurer under comprehensive coverage, and liability-only coverage won’t pay for it. If both were hit, expect two claims and two deductibles.

Submit and Follow Up

Contact your insurer promptly, since policies carry reporting deadlines. Provide your photos, police report number, estimates, and receipts for emergency repairs. An adjuster may inspect the damage. In Texas, insurers must acknowledge a claim within 15 days, and payment is due within 5 business days after the claim is approved. Keep a written record of every conversation. If your claim is denied or delayed, ask for a written explanation. The Texas Department of Insurance help line is 800-252-3439.