Last Updated May 27, 2026
They may not always wear ski masks or hide in the shadows, but burglars are still a real risk for homeowners. The good news is that homeowners insurance typically covers theft that happens inside your home or on your property.
This coverage is made up of a few key parts: dwelling coverage, personal property coverage, and other structures coverage.
Dwelling Coverage
Dwelling coverage protects the main structure of your home.
If a burglar damages your doors, windows, or other parts of your house while breaking in, this part of your policy can help pay for repairs.
It’s important to remember that rebuilding or repairing your home can change in cost over time due to materials, labor, and market conditions.
Personal Property
Personal property coverage protects your belongings inside the home.
This includes items such as clothing, furniture, electronics, and appliances—basically anything you would take with you if you moved.
If your belongings are stolen, this coverage can help replace them. However, it’s a good idea to regularly check whether your coverage limits are enough, especially if you own valuable items like jewelry, laptops, or cameras.
Other Structures
This coverage applies to structures on your property that are not attached to your main home, such as:
- Fences
- Detached garages
- Sheds
- Driveways and sidewalks
If these structures are damaged during a burglary or break-in, your insurance may help cover repair or replacement costs.
In most cases, coverage for other structures is about 10% of your dwelling coverage. For example, if your home is insured for $500,000, you may have around $50,000 in coverage for other structures. You can usually increase this limit if needed by speaking with your insurance advisor.
How Insurance Calculates the Value of Stolen Items
When you file a theft claim, your payout depends on how your insurance policy values your belongings. There are two common methods:
Actual Cash Value (ACV)
Actual Cash Value means your item’s value after depreciation.
For example, a laptop bought for $900 four years ago might only be worth $200 today. That is what you would receive under ACV coverage.
Replacement Cost Value (RCV)
Replacement Cost Value covers the cost of buying a new replacement item at today’s price.
Using the same example, that $900 laptop would be replaced at full current value, allowing you to buy a new one.
RCV usually costs more but provides stronger financial protection.
It’s important to confirm with your insurance advisor which type of coverage your policy includes.
Tips for Filing a Burglary Insurance Claim
If you experience a theft, acting quickly can make the claims process smoother:
- Report the incident to the police immediately
- Contact your insurance agent as soon as possible
- Request a copy of the police report
- Take photos or videos of any damage
- Make a detailed list of stolen or damaged items
- Keep receipts for any emergency repairs
If you want to take extra steps to protect your home from break-ins, it’s also helpful to follow basic prevention strategies. Learn more about protecting your home against burglary to reduce your risk before a theft happens.
Do You Have Enough Homeowners Insurance?
If you haven’t reviewed your homeowners insurance in a while, now is a good time. Major renovations, new purchases, or changes in property value can all affect your coverage needs.
A policy review ensures your protection is still enough for your current situation.
Contact G&G Insurance to review your homeowners insurance policy or get a home insurance quote today.