What Landlords Should Do if Their Rental Property Is Vandalized
Vandalism can leave landlords feeling frustrated and overwhelmed. From broken windows to graffiti and other property damage, the costs add up fast—and so does the stress. Knowing how to respond quickly and effectively can help protect your rental property and your finances.
Here are 5 essential steps landlords should take if their rental property is vandalized.
Step 1: Contact Local Authorities Immediately
Your first priority is to report the vandalism to local law enforcement. Filing a police report is essential for several reasons:
- It creates an official record of the incident
- You’ll need it when filing an insurance claim
- It helps investigators track patterns of criminal activity in the area
Make sure to get a copy of the report or the report number for your records.
Step 2: Document the Damage Thoroughly
Before making any repairs or cleaning up, take detailed photos and videos of the damage. This documentation should include:
- All vandalized areas of the property, inside and out
- Any evidence left behind (spray paint cans, broken glass, etc.)
- Serial numbers for damaged appliances or fixtures (if applicable)
This step is crucial for supporting your insurance claim and estimating repair costs.
Step 3: Secure the Property to Prevent Further Damage
Once the police have completed their initial investigation, secure the property to prevent additional vandalism or theft. You might need to:
- Board up broken windows or doors
- Install temporary locks or security systems
- Remove or protect exposed valuables and appliances
If your property is vacant, consider hiring a property management company or security service for extra protection until repairs are made.
Step 4: Contact Your Insurance Provider
Notify your landlord insurance provider as soon as possible. Most policies cover vandalism, but you’ll need to provide:
- The police report or case number
- Photos and videos of the damage
- A list of damaged items and estimated repair costs
At Steadily, vandalism and burglary coverage is included in our landlord insurance policies. If you’re already covered, we’ll guide you through the claims process to help you recover quickly.
Step 5: Make Repairs and Strengthen Property Security
Once your claim is underway, you can begin repairs to restore your property and prepare for future protection.
- Hire reputable contractors for repairs and replacements
- Consider adding security cameras, motion lights, and reinforced locks
- Work with tenants to increase property vigilance if the unit is occupied
Taking proactive measures not only deters future vandalism but also helps maintain tenant satisfaction and property value.
Why Landlord Insurance Matters After Vandalism
Repairing vandalism can cost thousands of dollars, from cleaning graffiti to replacing doors and windows. Landlord insurance helps absorb these costs and keeps your investment protected.
At Steadily, our landlord policies include vandalism coverage by default. Get a quote today to see how easy it is to safeguard your rental property against unexpected damage.
FAQs About Vandalism and Landlord Insurance
Does landlord insurance cover vandalism caused by tenants?
Most policies cover vandalism by third parties, not tenants. For tenant damage, you may need to use the security deposit or pursue legal action.
What if the property is vacant when it’s vandalized?
Some policies exclude vandalism coverage for vacant properties. Check your policy or consider vacant property insurance for added protection.
How long does it take to process a vandalism claim?
Processing times vary, but providing thorough documentation and contacting your insurer quickly helps speed things up.
Final Thoughts
Vandalism can be a major setback for landlords, but knowing how to respond makes a big difference. By following these 5 steps and ensuring you have the right insurance coverage, you can protect your rental property and your bottom line.
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