Has your car been stolen? Don’t panic! If you have “comprehensive” or “all-risk” insurance, you’re probably covered. Your first move should be calling the police to get a report, then contacting your insurer.

Here are the steps to follow:

What to do if your car is stolen?

Get a police report

Filing a police report is essential when your car disappears. This document speeds up the compensation process and helps authorities find your vehicle. Contact the police as soon as you notice the theft. They’ll give you a report number, crucial for your claim file.

For an insured vehicle, remember to send this report to your insurer quickly. It allows them to start their investigation without delay to activate your car insurance coverage. The faster you act, the better your chances of resolving the situation.

Contact your insurer (or broker) to report the claim

Once you have the police report, call your insurer or broker. Explain the situation in detail. They’ll guide you through the claim process. Make sure you have your contract number and police report information handy, as these are necessary details.

Prepare necessary documents and evidence

To facilitate your claim, gather these important items:

• Police report
• Vehicle ownership proof
• Recent maintenance bills
• Photos of the vehicle (if available)
• List of valuables in the car

Note that equipment permanently attached to your car is covered by your auto insurance. For example, an installed sound system. On the other hand, unattached items at the time of theft, like your phone, are usually covered by your home insurance.

Check your contract details to know exactly what your car insurance covers.

Handle the waiting period and compensation process

After filing the claim, there’s usually a 30-day waiting period. This time allows authorities to try to find your vehicle. Then, if the car isn’t located after this period, the compensation process begins.

The amount you’ll receive depends on your car’s value and contract terms. To speed up the investigation, stay in touch with your insurer or broker. Provide them with any additional information promptly.

Check if your vehicle is found

Stay in contact with the police for updates. If your vehicle is found before the 30-day period ends, the process changes. You’ll need to assess any damage with your insurer. If the car isn’t found, compensation will proceed as planned.

Theft and vandalism protection in car insurance

What theft and vandalism protection includes

• Damage from theft attempts
• Vandalism to your vehicle
• Stolen or ripped-off parts
• Theft-related glass breakage
• Interior damage
• Coverage for fixed audio systems

Why are newer vehicles more targeted for theft?

New cars attract thieves for several reasons. Smart keys can be hacked more easily, in-car technologies and new parts have increasing value on the black market. SUVs and trucks are also increasingly sought after.

How to know what’s covered by home insurance?

In Quebec, coverage for car theft or items inside depends on your insurance type. Here’s how to distinguish responsibilities between car and home insurance.

Vehicle theft

Complete vehicle theft is only covered if you’ve subscribed to optional protection in your car insurance contract. The main protections covering theft are:

• All risks: covers all damage types, including theft.
• Comprehensive (also called “multi-risk”): covers non-collision damage, such as theft, vandalism, weather, etc.
• Specified risks: covers only risks specifically mentioned in the contract, like theft, if included.

These protections are optional and must be added to your car insurance policy. They’re not included in Quebec’s mandatory minimum coverage, which is civil liability.

Theft of items inside the car

Personal items stolen from your car (like phone, laptop, purse) are generally not covered by your car insurance. They’re covered by your home insurance’s personal property coverage.

However, items permanently fixed to the vehicle or used exclusively for it (like built-in GPS, child seat, or bike rack) are covered by your car insurance.

How can the deductible influence your claim?

The car insurance deductible directly affects your compensation, as it’s the amount you pay before the insurer. Here’s what you need to know:

• A higher deductible reduces your premium costs
• It applies to each claim
• Amount typically varies from $250 to $1000

Choose a deductible that fits your budget and needs.

Tips to prevent car theft

Install an effective alarm system

To reduce theft risks, we recommend installing an alarm system in your vehicle. Tag, Kycs Locate, and Domino are very popular models in Quebec.

Plus, buying an alarm system will save you on insurance premiums. Ask your broker about possible discounts after installing an anti-theft device.

Protect your smart keys and data

Key security is crucial for theft prevention. We advise keeping them away from doors and windows at home. To block electronic signals, store them in a metal box or special case. Avoid leaving personal data in the vehicle, like ID papers or bills.

Choose secure parking

Parking choice plays an important role. Prefer locations with video surveillance, entry and exit barriers, and good lighting, especially at night. Know that thefts increase in urban centers. Stay vigilant, regardless of parking type. For example, avoid leaving your door unlocked, even for a few minutes.

Limit valuable items inside

We strongly recommend not leaving visible valuables in your car. Thieves are attracted to bags, electronic devices, and other expensive items. If you must keep them, hide them in the trunk before reaching your destination.

Compare different car insurance coverages with Gendron Assurance!

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Frequently asked questions about car insurance in case of theft

Why is it important to report theft to police immediately?

Quickly reporting vehicle theft to police is crucial for your insurance file. Your insurer requires this official report to open your claim. Know that reimbursement could take up to 30 days, allowing authorities to try finding your car.

What’s the difference between actual cash value and replacement cost?

The compensation you’ll receive depends on 2 main factors: your vehicle’s condition at theft time and similar model market price. Your insurer will evaluate these elements to determine your payment amount.

What if a thief only stole parts from my car?

If permanently attached parts like the audio system or catalytic converter were stolen, your car insurance will cover them. However, your unattached personal effects fall under home insurance. SUVs and trucks are often targeted for their catalytic converter, highly sought by thieves. Contact your insurer or broker for vehicle damage and, if necessary, your home insurer for missing personal items.