Direct Answer
Yes, vandalism is covered by auto insurance — but only under comprehensive coverage, not liability. If someone keys your car, slashes your tires, breaks your windows, or spray paints your vehicle, comprehensive pays for the repair minus your deductible. If you only carry the minimum required liability coverage in North Carolina, vandalism damage to your own vehicle is not covered.
Key Takeaways
- Vandalism is a comprehensive claim, not a collision claim
- You must have comprehensive coverage for vandalism to be covered
- You'll pay your deductible — if damage is less than your deductible, don't file a claim
- Filing a vandalism claim typically doesn't raise your rates as much as an at-fault accident
- Always file a police report before filing a claim
- Slashed tires are covered under comprehensive; blowouts from road hazards are not
What counts as vandalism
Auto insurance comprehensive coverage treats the following as vandalism:
- Keying or scratching the paint
- Broken or smashed windows
- Slashed or flattened tires (intentional damage)
- Spray paint or graffiti
- Broken mirrors or lights
- Dents from intentional strikes
What's not covered under vandalism: mechanical damage, normal wear, tire blowouts from road hazards, or damage from an accident.
Step 1: File a police report
Before you call your insurance company, file a police report. Most insurers require it for vandalism claims, and it documents that the damage was criminal — not something you caused. You can file online with most NC police departments or go to the non-emergency line if you're in Wake Forest or surrounding areas.
Keep the report number — your adjuster will ask for it.
Step 2: Document the damage
Photograph everything before any repairs are made. Take photos from multiple angles in good lighting. If your car was vandalized overnight, take photos in the morning before moving it.
Step 3: Decide whether to file
Here's where most people make a mistake: they file a claim for damage that's less than or close to their deductible. If your deductible is $500 and the repair estimate is $600, you'd only get $100 from the insurer — and you've now filed a claim that may affect your renewal.
Get a repair estimate first. If the damage significantly exceeds your deductible, file. If it's close, consider paying out of pocket.
Will a vandalism claim raise my rates?
Comprehensive claims — including vandalism — are generally treated more favorably than at-fault accidents because they're not your fault. However, multiple comprehensive claims in a short period can still affect your rates at renewal. One vandalism claim on an otherwise clean record is unlikely to cause a major rate increase.
North Carolina specifics
NC requires all registered vehicles to carry minimum liability coverage, but comprehensive is optional unless your vehicle is financed. If your car is paid off and you dropped comprehensive to save money, vandalism damage comes entirely out of your pocket.
