Discovering your home has been broken into is deeply unsettling. Knowing the right steps in advance helps you stay safe and act calmly when it matters most.
1. Do Not Go Inside
If you suspect a burglary, do not enter — the intruder may still be there. Go to a safe place and call 911 from outside.
2. Report and Document
- File a police report: You will need the case number for insurance.
- Photograph everything: Damage and disturbed areas before cleanup.
- List what's missing: Include serial numbers where possible.
Many departments let you start the process online — see how to file a police report online.
3. Contact Your Insurer
Report the loss promptly and provide your documentation. Renters and homeowners policies typically cover theft.
4. Secure and Prevent
Repair entry points, change locks, and review your defenses with our burglary prevention guide. Add the incident to your community map and enable real-time alerts — break-ins often happen in clusters, so warning neighbors helps prevent the next one.
Stay Informed. Stay Safe.
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