When Theft or Vandalism Strikes, We Help You Recover
Vandalism and theft can leave more than just physical scars. Forced entries, broken windows, graffiti, and stolen belongings can make a property feel unsafe and overwhelming to manage. The problem is insurance companies often downplay these losses or deny them entirely, especially when receipts or detailed inventories are hard to provide.
At Chris Faber Public Adjusters, we help homeowners, landlords, and business owners across California when vandalism or theft causes unexpected loss. With over 50 years of combined experience, Chris and Jo Faber know how to document damages, establish proof of ownership, and ensure insurance companies honor their obligations. From stolen property claims to structural repairs, we guide you through the process with clarity and care.
What Counts as Vandalism or Theft Damage in California Insurance Claims?
Vandalism and theft coverage is meant to restore both stolen property and damage caused by intruders.
Common examples include:
Even small incidents can result in broader repair needs and safety concerns.
Who We Help
Vandalism and theft can impact every type of property owner differently. A stolen laptop, a broken storefront, or a trashed rental unit each carries its own challenges. We work with clients across California to make sure no loss goes undocumented and no policyholder is left dealing with their insurer alone.
Homeowners
We help you recover the cost of stolen belongings and ensure repairs to windows, doors, and locks are fully covered. If your home is unsafe to live in, we assist with additional living expense claims.
Business Owners
Equipment theft and vandalism can halt operations. We help document lost inventory, calculate business interruption, and secure fair settlements for both physical damage and lost income.
Landlords
Rental units are especially vulnerable to vandalism or malicious damage by tenants. We assist in proving losses, restoring habitability, and recovering costs tied to repairs and lost rent.
Did you Know: Many California insurance policies cover “malicious mischief,” which applies even if nothing was stolen. Graffiti, intentional breakage, or tenant destruction can still qualify for a claim.
Where Insurance Companies Fall Short on Vandalism and Theft Claims
Vandalism and theft claims are often disputed because insurers focus on technicalities:
Demanding Receipts or Proof You Don’t Have
Insurers may deny items without receipts. We help reconstruct proof through photos, bank records, or sworn statements.
Applying Harsh Depreciation
Stolen items are often undervalued. We fight for replacement cost value instead of unfairly reduced actual cash value.
Downplaying Needed Security or Safety Repairs
Broken locks or windows may be called “simple fixes.” We show how these issues affect safety, habitability, and long-term property value.
Invoking Exclusions
Insurers may cite exclusions for cash, jewelry, or “mysterious disappearance.” We carefully review policies to challenge improper denials.
Did you Know: Policies often require a police report for theft claims. Even if stolen items can’t be recovered, the report helps establish proof of loss and strengthens your claim.
How We Help With Vandalism and Theft Damage Claims
Vandalism and theft claims can feel especially overwhelming because you’re dealing with both emotional and financial loss. Having an experienced advocate on your side makes the process far less stressful. We take on the burden of proving what was stolen or damaged, handling paperwork, and communicating with the insurance company so you can focus on restoring your peace of mind.
Detailed Damage and Loss Documentation
We prepare thorough inventories, photographs, and expert reports to prove losses and repair needs.
Policy Review and Clarification
We translate policy language, highlight exclusions, and show you what coverage applies.
Claim Filing and Negotiation
We manage communication with your insurance company, present evidence clearly, and push back on unfair valuations.
Support for Displacement or Interruption
If your home is unsafe or your business is disrupted, we pursue coverage for temporary housing, lost income, and emergency repairs.
Real Support from Real People: How We Handle Vandalism and Theft Claims
Every case we handle is personally managed by Chris and Jo Faber. With decades of experience, we understand both the technical demands of proving vandalism/theft claims and the emotional toll they take. Our job is to make sure your insurer treats your loss seriously, from damaged doors to stolen property.
After Vandalism or Theft: What You Can Do to Strengthen Your Claim
If you’ve experienced theft or vandalism, these steps can protect your rights and build a stronger case:
1. File a Police Report Right Away
Insurance companies require it. Keep a copy for your records.
2. Photograph Damage and Disruption
Take pictures of forced entry, graffiti, and the areas affected.
3. List All Missing Items Immediately
Make an inventory of stolen property, even if receipts are missing.
4. Secure the Property Safely
Replace locks, board windows, and prevent further damage. Temporary measures are usually covered.
5. Save Every Receipt
Track expenses for repairs, temporary housing, or rentals. These may be reimbursed.
6. Be Wary of Fast Settlements
Quick offers often leave out full replacement values or safety repairs.
Did you Know: Even without receipts, insurers must consider alternate evidence like photos, warranties, or appraisals. We know how to present proof that insurers accept.
Don’t Face Theft or Vandalism Claims Alone
Recovering after vandalism or theft is about more than repairing property. It’s about restoring peace of mind. Chris and Jo Faber help ensure your claim is properly filed, thoroughly documented, and fairly paid. If you’re dealing with missing proof, policy confusion, or a low offer, we’re here to help.
Contact Us for a Free ReviewFAQs
Yes. Most California homeowners policies include coverage for vandalism and malicious mischief, which applies to damage like graffiti, broken glass, or intentional destruction. Insurers may try to downplay these claims as minor repairs, but you have the right to full coverage for both cleanup and repairs.
Receipts help, but they aren’t the only proof insurers must accept. Photos, bank statements, warranties, appraisals, or even sworn statements can be enough. A public adjuster can help reconstruct your inventory and present it in a way insurers will take seriously.
Theft claims focus on proving ownership and value of missing items, while vandalism claims focus on physical damage. Both are covered, but theft often requires more documentation. Having a public adjuster ensures nothing gets left out, whether it’s property damage or personal belongings.
Usually not. Many California policies cap coverage for cash, jewelry, firearms, or collectibles at low limits unless you’ve purchased extra coverage. If you’ve lost valuables, we review your policy to find every possible coverage option and maximize your recovery.
Yes, if the damage qualifies as vandalism or malicious mischief. However, wear-and-tear or poor maintenance isn’t covered. We help landlords distinguish sudden, intentional damage from excluded issues so they can recover repair costs and restore habitability.
We take over the stressful parts: documenting every item, proving ownership, filing paperwork, and negotiating with the insurer. More importantly, we make sure the settlement covers not just what was stolen but also the full cost of repairs, security restoration, and in some cases, additional living or business interruption expenses.
