Is vandalism covered by car insurance?
Yes — is vandalism covered by car insurance is one of the most common questions drivers ask after returning to a damaged vehicle. The answer depends on your level of cover. Comprehensive car insurance covers malicious damage caused by a third party, including keying, graffiti, smashed windows, slashed tyres, and deliberate dents. Third-party only and third-party, fire and theft (TPFT) policies do not cover damage to your own vehicle — if you hold minimum cover and your car is keyed, the repair cost falls on you.
What counts as vandalism for insurance purposes?
Vandalism in insurance terms means deliberate, malicious damage caused by a third party. Common examples covered under comprehensive policies include scratches deliberately scored into paintwork (keying), spray paint or graffiti on panels or windows, smashed windows or mirrors, slashed or punctured tyres, dents made with a blunt object, broken door handles or wing mirrors snapped off, and arson (though this also falls under fire cover).
What is not covered as vandalism: weather damage, accidental damage caused by an unknown third party (this is accidental damage rather than malicious damage, though still covered under comprehensive), or damage you caused yourself.
For a broader look at what your policy includes, see what does car insurance cover in the UK.
Steps to take when your car has been vandalised
The order matters here — particularly getting a crime reference number before contacting your insurer.
| Step | Action |
|---|---|
| 1. Photograph all damage | Before touching anything — multiple angles and close-ups of each damaged area |
| 2. Report to the police | Call 101 or report online at police.uk — you need a crime reference number to claim |
| 3. Note the time and location | When you last saw the car undamaged, and where it was parked |
| 4. Check for CCTV | Note nearby cameras — police or your insurer may be able to use the footage |
| 5. Contact your insurer | With your crime reference number, photos, and parking location details |
| 6. Get a repair estimate | Your insurer may direct you to an approved repairer, or you can seek authorisation for your own quote |
You cannot make a vandalism insurance claim without a crime reference number. The police report also serves as a record in case the perpetrator is later identified and you wish to pursue a civil claim for your excess.
Should you claim or pay for the repair yourself?
Repair costs vary widely — a minor scratch touch-up can cost £80–£200, a full panel respray £300–£800, and multiple panels of damage can exceed £1,000. Apply the same excess calculation as you would for any other minor damage claim.
If the damage is extensive — multiple panels, smashed windows, slashed tyres — claiming is almost always the right financial decision. If it’s a single keymark on one panel, a specialist scratch repair shop may fix it for less than your excess with no impact on your no-claims discount (NCD). For more on whether dents and scratches are worth claiming, see www.joinrooster.co.uk/car/car-insurance/are-dents-and-scratches-covered-by-insurance.
One important difference from other claims: vandalism is not your fault, and some insurers treat malicious damage claims more leniently in terms of NCD impact than at-fault accidental damage. Check your policy terms before assuming a claim will step back your discount.
What if the vandal is identified?
If police identify the person responsible, they may be prosecuted under the Criminal Damage Act 1971. You can also pursue a civil claim for the cost of repairs — including your excess — through the small claims court. This is worth pursuing if you have clear evidence and the damage costs are significant.
If you have already claimed through your insurer and they have paid out, your insurer may pursue the individual directly for recovery of the claim cost.
Does where you park affect vandalism risk and your premium?
Yes on both counts. Parking in areas with higher crime rates increases both the likelihood of vandalism and the insurer’s assessment of your vehicle’s risk. Declaring a garage or secure off-street parking will usually reduce your premium — the difference can be meaningful in high-risk postcodes. Overnight garage parking essentially eliminates opportunistic vandalism risk entirely.
Frequently asked questions
Is car keying covered by insurance?
Yes — keying is classed as malicious damage and is covered under comprehensive car insurance. You will need to report it to the police and obtain a crime reference number before making a claim.
Do I need a crime reference number to claim for vandalism?
Yes — insurers require a crime reference number as proof the incident was reported. You can get one by calling 101 or reporting online at police.uk.
Will a vandalism claim affect my no-claims discount?
It may — policies vary. Some insurers treat malicious damage more leniently than at-fault accidents. Check your policy terms or ask your insurer directly before proceeding.
Is vandalism covered by third-party fire and theft insurance?
No — TPFT only covers fire damage and theft of the vehicle itself. Malicious damage to your own car requires comprehensive cover.
What if I know who vandalised my car?
Report to the police regardless. If the person is identified, you can also pursue a civil claim for the cost of repairs and any excess paid through the small claims court.
How Rooster can help
If your car has been vandalised and you’re facing a claim, Rooster’s free Accident Assist service offers independent support to help you get the best possible outcome — at no cost to you.
If you’re due for renewal and wondering whether your current insurer is giving you a fair deal, Rooster’s Test Drive lets safe drivers prove their driving ability and get a quote based on how they actually drive — not just their age, postcode, or job title. Download Rooster today.
