Is vandalism covered? What to do if someone damages your parked car

Do you fear your car getting damaged while it is parked at an unattended parking lot or on a busy street? If yes, then welcome to the club, as many car owners share the same fear. So, what is the solution? While it is not possible to create more space or install surveillance everywhere, it can be done by obtaining an insurance policy with proper coverage, including coverage for malicious acts such as vandalism.

In this article, we’ll discuss car insurance and how it can help us during stressful times.

Also Read: New to driving? Here’s how to handle accidents and insurance

Car vandalism in the Philippines - An overview of the situation

We do not realise it, but car vandalism is pretty common in the Philippines, leaving many Filipino car owners in panic and stress. According to statistics, such malicious acts usually occur in poorly lit areas, unguarded parking spaces, or busy areas with heavy footfall. As cars are a significant investment for many families, dealing with such intentional damage is costly.

Types of vehicle vandalism

Listed below are common forms of vehicle vandalism experienced by car owners in the country –

• Scratches on the car body
• Broken windows & windshield
• Slashed tires
• Smashed or stolen side mirrors
• Paint damage (via sharp object)
• Dent caused by deliberate force
• Stolen emblems

All these damages might seem small at first. Still, the repair/replacement can be pretty expensive - especially if the vehicle in question is new, expensive, or when dealership repair is involved.

Also Read: Windscreen coverage in the Philippines explained: Inclusions, exclusions, and why it matters

High-risk parking location

Due to limited safe parking spaces and garage space at homes, Filipinos end up leaving their cars at high-risk locations with poor lighting, limited CCTV surveillance, and limited community visibility. All this, along with busy street parking, increases the exposure to vandalism.

Also Read: Impact of safety features on car insurance premiums

Vandalism and car insurance: Coverage explained

Does car insurance cover vandalism? The answer is YES, but only if the policy includes comprehensive coverage.

Car owners need to understand how car insurance works in the Philippines. Many Filipinos mistakenly believe vandalism is automatically covered, but sadly, that’s not the case. CTPL insurance only covers third-party injuries or death and nothing else. Only if comprehensive insurance is part of the policy can you enjoy protection against vandalism and other malicious acts. Let us learn a little more about the insurance coverage -

Comprehensive policy: When vandalism is covered & when it is not

A comprehensive policy generally provides coverage for the following: broken glass, malicious damage, intentional scratches, break-in damage, and other damage caused by an unknown person.

Most insurance providers in the Philippines treat vandalism as covered under SRCC (Strike, Riot, and Civil Commotion) coverage.

When vandalism is not covered

It is a fact that the CTPL policy does not cover vandalism; however, even with comprehensive insurance, it does not guarantee relief from the financial burden caused by the malicious act. Here are a few instances when vandalism is not covered -

• Damage is caused intentionally by the owner
• The insurance policy has lapsed

Also Read: Difference between basic car insurance and add-ons: Insights for Filipino drivers

Vandalism vs. theft coverage

Theft coverage	Vandalism coverage
It offers financial protection in case of stolen vehicles, stolen parts, or damage caused in an attempt at theft	It provides coverage against intentional damage to the car caused by a third party.

Parked car got damaged: Here's what to do

Someone damaged your vehicle while it was parked? It is one of the most disappointing feelings, and here’s what you need to do next.

Step 1: Don’t panic, stay calm. Instead, document the damage

There is no need to panic and feel sorry seeing your parked car bumped or scratched. Instead, it’s time to act and start documenting the damages. Here are a few tips to get claim supporting photos -

• Take close-up shots
• Click overall damages
• Click pictures of the surrounding area
• Click the spot where the vehicle was parked
• Take photos of any object left behind by the culprit

Also Read: All you need to know about taking photos after a car accident in the Philippines

All this will help you during claim evaluation.

Step 2: Look for CCTV cameras and try getting the footage

Scan the area thoroughly, and see if you can find any CCTV cameras that might have caught the act. Community surveillance systems are becoming common these days; make an inquiry and take advantage.

Step 3: Notify the police authorities

In the event of a malicious act, such as vandalism, rioting, theft, a collision, or a hit-and-run, it is recommended that you inform the local authorities as soon as possible and obtain a police report. Doing so is not only necessary but also supports your claim.

Step 4: Inform the insurance provider

As with calling the police, it is also necessary to notify the provider about the incident. You can do so by calling the insurer’s hotline number or your agent. During the call, you might be asked about the following, so be prepared -

• Your policy number
• Photos of the damage
• Location of the incident
• Police report number (if available)

Step 5: Gather required documents

At the time of submission of the claim form, you would be required to submit the following documents, so make sure you gather them all for a fast processing experience.

• Vehicle’s OR/CR
• Duly accomplished claim form
• Police report
• Driver’s license
• Photos of the damage

Step 6: Get the car inspected and repaired

Insurance providers usually send an adjuster to inspect the vehicle or refer you to an accredited repair shop. Once approved, repairs typically begin.

Coverage offered against a vandalism claim

Vandalism coverage in car insurance varies by provider. However, most policies cover full repair cost (minus participation cost).

Here are a few factors that affect claim amount -

• Car’s age
• Repair cost
• Policy limits
• Part availability
• Partner shop

Note, the final amount is determined by the insurer after inspection.

Tips to prevent car vandalism

It is a fact that we can not prevent everything, whether it be an act of god or another human. However, the risk can be significantly reduced by adopting a few simple habits and measures—for instance, by parking safely and installing safety devices. Let us discuss each one-by-one -

Places to park the car safely -

• Malls
• Paid parking
• Well-lit streets
• Guarded subdivisions
• Space with CCTV coverage

Remember, paying a few pesos for parking is way cheaper compared to costly repairs after an incident (due to careless parking).

Safety & security devices that help -

• Dashcams with parking mode
• GPS trackers
• Car alarm system
• Motion sensors

Note, installing such devices helps deter notorious criminals and allows you to collect evidence.

Also Read: All about dash cams and its impact on car insurance

Bottom line

For most of us, our car is an integral part of daily life - whether it’s going to the office, the market, or on family trips. But when the same car is vandalised, the situation becomes complicated and frustrating. The only thing that can help in such a situation is our car insurance policy. With the right plan, you could enjoy coverage against damage and a stress-free life with no unexpected financial burdens.

You see, comprehensive insurance offers broad protection to Filipino car owners; all you have to do is follow the correct claim process for a smooth approval. Remember, by staying prepared, informed, parking wisely, and keeping the policy updated, you can ensure your vehicle's protection and avoid major repairs.

 

Also Read: Don’t panic after a hit-and-run: Here’s how car insurance helps Filipino drivers