Log in
Claims Pay a bill
You can file a claim by phone or mobile app. Call us at 1-800-421-3535.
To track a claim, log in.

What is vehicle vandalism?

Vehicle vandalism occurs when an individual intentionally causes damage to the property of another, in this case, a vehicle. Some examples of acts of vandalism include the vehicle being keyed, slashed tires or a broken window.

If your vehicle has been vandalized

At the scene
  • Call police to report the incident. Although most vehicle vandalism is random, if you believe yours is a result of harassment or revenge, provide that information to police including potential suspects.
  • If there are witnesses, collect their contact information
Secure your car and its contents
  • Make sure your vehicle is safe to drive. If your vehicle is towed, remove your personal belongings
  • Don't attempt to clean up the vehicle or repair any damage until a Claims Associate has made a full assessment. (In the case of rain or snow, take necessary measures to keep your interior dry.)
  • Do clean up broken glass or parts on the ground, if you’re in a public place
  • Save receipts for any materials you buy to protect your vehicle for possible reimbursement
Document the damage
  • If the police don't come to the scene, take pictures of the damage from every angle to help document your claim. This might be especially critical if the damage is cosmetic, like if your vehicle was keyed. It also is helpful if you have fairly current pictures of your vehicle before the vandalism, in case there's any question of when the damage happened.
  • Make an inventory of any items that were stolen or damaged and locate receipts, if possible

Starting a vehicle vandalism insurance claim

Start a claim online or call us at 1-800-421-3535. Please have the following items handy:
  • Date and time of the incident
  • Where the damage is located
  • Where your vehicle was parked
  • Police report number
  • Your phone number
  • Contact information for your lender or vehicle leasing company, if applicable
You’ll be assigned a Nationwide claims associate who will contact you to:
  • Gather all essential information and to schedule an inspection of your vehicle
  • Explain what’s covered and how your deductible may come into play
  • Walk you through the claim process
  • Answer any questions related to your claim

Check your policy to see if you’re eligible for reimbursement of a rental car or public transportation while your vehicle is being repaired.

Replacing your stolen belongings

While comprehensive insurance may cover repairs to your vehicle, homeowners or renters insurance may cover certain items stolen from your vehicle. To pursue possible coverage for items stolen from your vehicle, you may need to file a separate claim under your homeowners, or renters insurance policy or any other applicable policy.

Arranging repairs

You can choose your own repair shop or a facility from our On Your Side Auto Repair Network®.1

If you choose one of our On Your Side shops, you'll receive fast, seamless service. We work directly with these pre-screened, pre-qualified shops to streamline estimates, repairs and payments.

Settling your claim

If you choose to use an On Your Side Auto Repair Network shop for the repairs, we settle your claim under the terms of your policy and send the repair shop final payment, minus any applicable deductible amount and non-covered/accepted expenses you’re responsible for. If you use your shop of choice and your vehicle damage is estimated by Nationwide, you’ll receive payment, minus those same amounts.

If your vehicle has extensive damage, it may be considered a total loss. Your claims associate will work closely with you throughout the process to provide a fair market value for your vehicle.

Safeguard your car from vandals

Park it inside

Keeping your vehicle in a locked garage works as a good deterrent to vehicle vandalism because most vandals are looking for an easy and convenient target, such as a vehicle parked on the street or in a lot.

Look for lights

If you have to park outside at night, look for an unobstructed, well-lit place. If you’re on the street, park under a street lamp. If you’re parking in a driveway, install motion-sensor lights to draw attention to anyone who comes near your vehicle.

Install a car alarm

Consider installing a quality motion-activated vehicle alarm. Although many people may simply ignore vehicle alarms, a vandal isn’t likely to hang around a blaring alarm very long. Even a security system decal on your window may deter a vandal.

Hide your valuables

Don't leave anything of value in plain sight. Lock valuables in your trunk or hide them under a seat. Or take them with you. Don't tempt a thief into a smash and grab.

[1] Guarantee covers replacement of any defective alternative parts identified on appraisal and used in repair for as long as you own or lease your repaired vehicle. Also, work performed at an On Your Side® Auto Repair Center includes a guarantee on the workmanship of the appraised and completed repairs for as long as you own or lease your vehicle.

Each claim is handled on the basis of its individual facts and circumstances, in accordance with policy language, including applicable exclusions, conditions and limitations, as well as applicable controlling law.