Recent events that have divided the nation are found in the newspapers and on social media. Protests glorifying white nationalism, counter-protests, and a random act of anti-Semitism toward a non-profit holocaust museum have highlighted baseless hatred, as well as the resulting harm associated with vandalism.

Saddened along with other decent Americans, the insurance industry turns its attention to the need for insurance to protect against these acts.

For average business owners, nonprofit executives, homeowners, renters, and car drivers, the problem is burning. Will current compensation protect one from “willful and malicious destruction of property”?

If those who inflicted damage are not found or identified, your insurance will cover the costs of repair or replacement, depending, of course, if the affected property is covered.

First, let’s examine a standard homeowners policy.

In general, a standard homeowners policy can protect one from damage from civil disturbances and vandalism. This is because protection of property and liability is included. The only pending exclusion is if your home has been unoccupied for sixty-one days or more.

Second, comes the coverage of the business owner, or the insurance policy of a non-profit organization.

Standard policies cover the following:

– your building

– Any accessory located inside or outside the building

– All permanently installed machinery or equipment

– Outdoor furniture

– Floor coverings

– Household appliances, such as refrigerator, dishwasher, washing machine, dryer, fans, etc.

– Indoor or outdoor business personal property, such as a car or truck, that is 100 feet from the building or closer.

For the business owner who experiences a loss of income due to a property restoration or replacement, the policy includes business income coverage. This means that there will be reimbursement for lost income or business maintenance, such as payroll payments, utility payments, mortgage payments, and rent payments.

Finally, auto insurance will cover you for vandalism IF you have the proper form of coverage. A comprehensive policy covers restoration and replacement charges if your vehicle has been damaged in a protest or other event that is not related to a collision. However, keep in mind that without the comprehensive plan, regardless of any liability, collision, PIP, or uninsured or underinsured car policy you have purchased, you will not be covered for anything that is not related to a car accident or other vehicle.

For more answers to any questions about vandalism and how it correlates to your insurance coverage, speak with an experienced independent agent.