Steps to take after experiencing theft.
While homeowners do everything they can to protect their property and belongings, some accidents can’t be avoided. Even if you have a secure home security system, thieves can find new ways into the house to steal your beloved belongings. Unfortunately, in the U.S. alone, there are more than 3.7 million home burglaries every year. If you are ever the victim of a burglary, here are some tips on how to handle it.
Call the police. It’s important to get the police on the scene as soon as possible. If you think the perpetrator is still inside, it’s best to leave your home safely and call 911. Reporting the incident also helps your community collect crime data, which can help your area allocate resources in the future.
Stay calm. It’s natural to panic and assume the worst, but it’s important to remember to breathe, take it slow, and recognize the positives.
Take pictures of damage and list stolen items. Once you’ve regained your composure, it’s time to approach your property and assess the damage or loss. Walk through your home and take pictures of everything that’s damaged. Write down missing items and make sure all the stolen items are listed on the police report, as some could be recovered. It’s helpful if you can refer to your home inventory at this point!
Contact your insurance company to file a claim. Talk to your insurance company about the situation and they will be able to advise on necessary steps to get the claim underway.
Should an accident happen to your home, be sure that you can rely on your homeowners insurance. Contact the team Lou Aggetta Insurance Services in Pleasant Hill to get started on your tailored policy.