How to claim insurance after a theft is one of the most common questions UK residents ask following a burglary. And it’s no surprise – getting it wrong can lead to delays, disputes, or even a reduced payout.
A break-in is more than just the loss of valuables. It’s a personal violation that leaves many feeling shaken and vulnerable. On top of the emotional impact, you’re faced with the daunting task of navigating an insurance process that can feel slow, unclear, and overwhelming.
But you don’t have to face it alone—or guess your way through it. Whether you’re dealing with stolen jewellery, a damaged door, or both, this guide will walk you through each critical step: from reporting the theft and gathering evidence to working with your insurer and securing the right support.
By the end, you’ll know exactly how to claim insurance after a theft, confidently, and without missing any key steps.
Summary – How to Claim Insurance After a Theft
1. What to Do Immediately After a Theft
Calling the police and getting a crime reference number
Securing your property and documenting the damage
2. Documenting Stolen Items and Proving Ownership
Creating an inventory list
Gathering receipts, photos, and bank statements
Taking detailed photos of the scene
3. Contacting Your Insurance Provider
When and how to notify your insurer
What documents you’ll need for your claim
Online vs phone claims
4. Understanding Your Insurance Policy
The difference between contents and buildings insurance
What’s covered and what’s excluded
Off-premises theft and special item declarations
5. How a Loss Assessor Can Help You
When to hire one
How they improve your chances of a successful payout
6. Working Through the Insurance Claim Process
Submitting forms and documentation
What to expect from a loss adjuster visit
Settlement, rejection, and appeals
7. Preventing Future Theft
Improving home security (alarms, locks, cameras)
Joining a neighbourhood watch
Reviewing and updating your insurance policy
8. Quick Recap and Key Takeaways
Summary of action steps
Common pitfalls to avoid
Resources for support
Immediate Steps After Theft
The first few hours after a theft are critical. Acting fast can help police investigations and safeguard your insurance claim.
1. Call the Police
Dial 999 in emergencies or your local non-emergency number for less urgent cases.
Provide detailed information: what was stolen, where it happened, and any suspicious activity.
Request a crime reference number – this is essential for your insurance claim.
2. Secure Your Property
If there has been forced entry or damage:
Board up broken doors or windows.
Contact emergency repair services if needed.
Take clear photographs of all damage before repairs.
Keep receipts for emergency fixes – these are claimable.
Documenting the Loss
Good documentation is your strongest ally in a successful claim.
Create an Inventory
For each stolen or damaged item, list:
Item description and model
Estimated age
Original purchase price
Serial number (if available)
Collect Proof of Ownership
Receipts or invoices
Bank or credit card statements
Photos showing the items in your property
Product packaging or manuals (as backup evidence)
Take Photographs
Document all visible damage (doors, safes, storage areas)
How to Claim Insurance After a Theft: Contacting Your Insurer
Once you’ve reported the theft and documented your losses, it’s time to notify your insurer.
Notify Within the Policy Timeframe
Most insurance policies have clear deadlines for reporting incidents. Review your policy and ensure you file your claim within the specified timeframe to avoid rejection.
Choose a Contact Method
Insurers typically allow claims to be filed via:
Telephone through a dedicated claim line, or Online claim forms accessible via their website or app.
Having your policy number, crime reference number, and documentation ready will simplify the process.
Role of a Loss Assessor
If your claim appears complex, you might benefit from hiring a loss assessor. They:
Work independently on your behalf (unlike the insurer-appointed loss adjuster).
Ensure your claim is accurately prepared and optimise the chances of receiving fair compensation.
Negotiate with the insurer to represent your interests.
While assessors take a fee (often a percentage of the claim settlement), their expertise can drastically increase the likelihood of a successful claim.
Understanding Your Policy Cover
Knowing your policy details is key when learning how to claim insurance after a theft, especially when it comes to what’s covered and what’s not.
Types of Cover
Contents Insurance ensures your belongings are covered for incidents like theft or damage.
Buildings Insurance covers structural elements, such as damaged windows or doors caused during a break-in.
Off-Premises Cover might apply, depending on your policy terms, if items were stolen outside your home.
Common Exclusions
Be aware of typical exclusions that may affect your claim:
High-value jewellery or electronics might need separate declarations on your policy.
Items stolen by members of your household or left unsecured.
Theft without evidence of forced entry.
Refer to your policy schedule to identify other potential exclusions.
Working Through the Claim
The claim process involves submitting your documentation and working with your insurer to achieve a settlement. Here’s what to expect.
Submit Documentation
Provide all the necessary paperwork, including:
Claim form (accessed via your insurer’s platform).
A detailed inventory, accompanied by supporting documents such as receipts and photographs.
Quotes or invoices for any emergency repairs that have already been performed.
Adjuster or Loss Assessor Visit
Your insurer’s loss adjuster may visit your property to:
Validate your claim.
Assess the extent of damage or loss.
Review the documentation you’ve provided.
If you’ve hired a loss assessor, they will liaise with the adjuster on your behalf.
Settlement or Rejection
Once all details are reviewed, the insurer will:
Offer a settlement amount to compensate your losses. This will reflect deductions for policy excess and depreciation (where applicable).
Reject your claim if it doesn’t meet policy terms. Common reasons include late reporting, inadequate documentation, or exclusions for theft.
If your claim is rejected, request specific reasons and, if necessary, appeal the decision with additional supporting evidence.
Preventing Future Theft
Experiencing theft can be distressing, but implementing security measures can reduce the likelihood of future incidents.
Improve Your Home Security
Consider upgrading your home’s security setup:
Install robust locks on doors and windows.
Add smart home alarms and CCTV cameras for real-time monitoring.
Use motion-activated lighting around entry points to deter intruders.
Join a Neighbourhood Watch Scheme
Collaborating with local residents in a community-based initiative can:
Increase crime reporting and monitoring in your area.
Create a visible deterrent for would-be thieves.
Check Your Insurance Coverage
Now is a good time to revisit your policy terms:
Ensure all valuable items are adequately declared.
Consider policy upgrades for additional coverage, such as personal belongings protection for items carried outside the home.
Take Back Control After a Theft – One Step at a Time
Recovering from a theft is never easy, but with the right approach, you can take back control and increase your chances of a successful insurance claim. Acting fast, staying organised, and understanding your insurance cover makes a big difference.
Here’s a quick recap of what you should do:
Report the theft to the police immediately and get a crime reference number.
Secure your home and document all visible damage before any repairs.
Gather proof of ownership like receipts and photos.
Inform your insurer within the claim deadline, with your documents ready.
Hire a loss assessor if your claim is large or complicated – they work for you, not the insurer.
Review your policy’s exclusions carefully to avoid surprises.
Invest in better home security and review your policy to ensure it’s up to date.
If you’re feeling overwhelmed or unsure what your insurer might cover, Oakleafe Claims can help. Our expert loss assessors handle the heavy lifting, fight your corner, and ensure your claim is maximised. Don’t leave your payout to chance – speak to a professional today and get the support you deserve.
We Can Help
Oakleafe Claims have represented policyholders and managed their insurance claims since before the First World War. We have vast expertise and experience in both domestic and commercial insurance claims with thousands of satisfied policyholders who have received their deserved insurance settlement.
If you have been declined whilst trying to claim on your domestic or commercial insurance, we can help. We can also help with professional services, for example, Brokers, VAR Valuations and Managing Agents.
Oakleafe Claims Limited is an Appointed Representative of Oakleafe Group Limited which is Authorised and Regulated by the Financial Conduct Authority and is entered on the Financial Service Register (https://register.fca.org.uk/s/) under reference: 790564
