What to Do If Your Home Is Broken Into

Experiencing a home invasion can be overwhelming and unsettling. The thought of someone breaking into your personal space and going through your belongings is distressing. However, staying calm and taking the right steps can help you regain control of the situation. If you ever find yourself in this position, follow these steps to protect yourself, secure your property, and navigate the recovery process.

Please note: This blog provides a general overview of steps to take following a property break-in and home insurance. It is not all-encompassing and should not be taken as specific advice. Be sure to discuss your unique circumstances with a licensed insurance broker to receive guidance tailored to your situation.

 

Prioritize Your Safety & Avoid Disturbing the Scene

If you suspect a burglary, take a moment to assess the situation from a distance. Prioritizing your safety is crucial, so if something seems off, such as a broken window, an open door, or household items and furniture has been strewn about, leave your home immediately. It’s quite possible the intruder is still inside your home, so keeping your distance for now is crucial. While it may feel tempting to check on your belongings, leave everything as is to preserve the scene of the crime and move to a safe location such as a neighbour’s house or your locked vehicle.

Contact Authorities and File a Police Report

As soon as you’re in a secure location, call the police to report the home invasion. If your home security system has been triggered, the monitoring service may have already contacted law enforcement, but it’s still essential to report the crime. Provide as much detail as possible, including any suspicious activity you may have noticed before the incident. Once the officers arrive, they will investigate and gather evidence. Be sure to:

• Request a copy of the police report for your records
• Provide security camera footage, if available
• Keep track of the case number and officers’ contact details

Assess Damage and Create an Inventory List

Once the police have secured the scene, conduct a thorough check of your home. Take notes on any property damage and missing items. If you have a pre-existing inventory list of valuables, cross-check it to determine what was stolen during the robbery.

Common stolen items during a home invasion include:

• Electronics (laptops, gaming consoles, TVs)
• Jewelry and watches
• Cash, credit cards, and important documents
• Prescription medications

If you notice additional stolen items later, inform the police so they can update the report.

Notify Your Insurance Provider and File a Claim

If you have home insurance, coverage for your condo, or tenant insurance, your policy may cover stolen items and property damage caused by an intruder. Contact your insurance broker as soon as possible to initiate the claims process. 

Here are steps you can take and items to have ready when you file a claim:

• Provide a copy of the police report
• Include a list of the items that were stolen, along with estimated values
• Share any receipts, product manuals, or photos of missing items
• Include details of quotes you have received to repair any damage, if applicable

After submitting the claim, an adjuster will review the details and will be in touch regarding next steps or if they require additional information. Keep copies of all claim-related correspondence for your records, as well. 

It’s important to remember that the amount of money you receive from your settlement for property damage or stolen items will come down to your policy limits and inclusions. Items such as jewelry or collectibles, for example, may only be covered up to a certain amount if you did not purchase additional coverage for them, so it’s best to review your policy’s terms and conditions to have a better understanding of what you will be covered for.

Secure Your Home and Identity

Following the completion of the police investigation, you should restore your home’s security. 

This could include:

• Boarding up broken windows and doors, and replacing damaged locks
• Cleaning up broken glass and any messes caused during the home invasion
• Resetting passwords for smart locks and security systems
• Contacting your bank to report stolen credit or debit cards
• Reporting stolen passports to Service Canada
• Notifying provincial service centres to report stolen ID cards
• Contacting credit-reporting agencies and asking for a security alert to prevent burglars from taking out a loan in your name
• Reset online passwords to prevent hacking and identity theft if your computer was stolen

Improve Home Security to Prevent Future Incidents

While it’s impossible to predict when a burglary might happen, taking steps to enhance the security of your property can significantly reduce the risk of another incident and improve home safety. Consider these preventative measures:

• Install or upgrade a monitored security system
• Reinforce doors and windows with high-quality locks
• Use motion-activated lighting around your property
• Avoid sharing vacation plans or valuables on social media
• Display security signs to deter criminals

Being the victim of a burglary is a distressing experience, but knowing the right steps to take following an incident can help you regain a sense of relief and safety. By acting swiftly, securing your home, and reviewing your insurance coverage, you can be prepared and recover from a home invasion more efficiently. 

If you’re unsure about the level of protection your policy offers, reach out to your BIG broker to discuss your coverage. Our team is here to help you navigate these situations with confidence and ensure your home remains a safe and secure place for you and your loved ones.