Vehicles
Am I covered if my car is stolen?
The short answer
Yes, if you hold comprehensive or third-party fire and theft cover. The insurer pays the market value at the time of theft, not what you paid — and leaving keys in or on the car, or the car unlocked, will normally void the claim.
What you'll be paid
Settlement is market value: what a similar car of the same age, mileage and condition would sell for the day it was taken. Bring advert comparisons if the offer looks low — you can negotiate.
If the car is on finance, the insurer pays the finance company first. GAP insurance covers the shortfall between the payout and what you owe or what you originally paid.
Exclusions that void theft claims
Keys left in the ignition, on the roof, or in an unlocked car; a car left unlocked or with windows open; keys stolen from a visible spot inside your home in some policies.
Relay and keyless theft is generally covered, but some insurers require a Thatcham-approved alarm, tracker or steering lock on higher-value cars — check your schedule for a security endorsement.
The first 24 hours
Report to the police and get a crime reference number, tell the insurer, and notify the DVLA and any finance company. Insurers usually wait 21–30 days before settling, in case the car is recovered.
Keep both sets of keys — you'll be asked to hand them over, and a missing key can delay or defeat the claim.
Check these on your own policy
- Crime reference number straight away
- Both sets of keys available for the insurer
- Adverts for comparable cars to support the valuation
- Check for any security condition on your schedule
Common follow-up questions
Are my belongings in the car covered?
Motor policies cover personal effects only up to a small limit, often £100–£250. Contents insurance with personal possessions cover may pay more.
What if the car is recovered damaged?
It becomes a repair claim under the same theft claim, with your excess applying once.