Yes. Renters insurance usually covers personal belongings stolen from your car, such as a laptop, backpack, phone or gym bag, minus your deductible. It does not cover the car itself or parts attached to it, which fall under your auto insurance’s comprehensive coverage.
What’s covered when your car is broken into
| What was stolen or damaged | Which policy usually covers it |
|---|---|
| Laptop, bag, clothes, sports gear left inside | Renters insurance (personal property) |
| Broken window, damaged door lock | Auto insurance (comprehensive) |
| Factory stereo, catalytic converter, wheels | Auto insurance (comprehensive) |
| The car itself | Auto insurance (comprehensive) |
If you don’t carry comprehensive auto coverage, damage to the car itself isn’t covered by either policy.
Why renters insurance covers your stuff in the car
Most renters policies protect your belongings anywhere in the world, not just at home. That “off-premises” coverage is what applies when something is stolen from your car, a hotel room or a locker. Some policies pay a lower limit for property away from home, often a percentage of your total personal property limit, so check your policy.
Is it worth filing a claim?
Compare the value of what was stolen with your deductible. If a $300 backpack was taken and your deductible is $500, a claim won’t pay anything. If a $1,500 laptop and a $400 bag were taken, you’d receive about $1,400 on a replacement cost policy with a $500 deductible. Remember the auto deductible may apply separately to the car damage.
How to file
- File a police report and get the report number. Insurers usually require it for theft.
- Photograph the damage to the car.
- List what was stolen, with receipts, card statements or photos if you have them.
- File the belongings claim with your renters insurer and the car damage with your auto insurer.
More detail: How to file a renters insurance claim.
Prevent it next time
- Don’t leave bags or electronics visible, even for a few minutes.
- Move items to the trunk before you arrive, not after you park.
- Keep serial numbers and photos of electronics so claims and police reports are easier.
New to this? Start with What is renters insurance?
This site offers general information, not insurance or legal advice. Coverage, prices and rules vary by insurer, policy and state, so always read your own policy and ask your insurer or agent about your situation.