Vandalism and Malicious Mischief Insurance

Vandalism and malicious mischief insurance covers intentional damage to property caused by vandals. It’s commonly included in basic homeowners and commercial policies or added as a specific endorsement. This coverage protects both the structure and personal property on the premises from deliberate destruction, subject to policy limits and deductibles.

Key takeaways

Protects against intentional property damage (without theft) to buildings and personal property.
Often included in standard homeowners and commercial policies or added via endorsement.
Commonly used by properties that are unoccupied at predictable times (schools, churches) and by landlords.
Losses are typically excluded if the dwelling has been vacant for more than 60 consecutive days.
Damage intentionally caused by any named insured on the policy is not covered.
Tenant intentional damage is usually not covered under a homeowner’s policy; car vandalism is often covered by comprehensive auto insurance.

How it works

Definition: Vandalism/malicious mischief = intentional injury or destruction of property (not theft).
Coverage scope: Pays to repair or replace damaged parts of the premises and personal items that were on the property when damaged (subject to deductible and policy limits).
Policy form: May be part of a standard homeowners/commercial policy or written as an endorsement when a separate provision is required.
Deductibles: Properties known to be unoccupied at certain hours (e.g., churches, schools) may face higher deductibles or special underwriting.
Who benefits: Homeowners, landlords, commercial property owners and others at risk of intentional damage.

What’s covered (examples)

Broken windows, graffiti, slashed tires on a bicycle stored on the property.
Deliberate destruction of household items (e.g., stereo trashed by an intruder acting out of malice).
Many claims arise from retaliatory acts by former partners or household members.

What’s not covered

Vacant properties: Most policies exclude vandalism losses if the dwelling has been vacant for more than 60 consecutive days. A structure is considered vacant if no one lives there and it’s substantially empty of the personal property needed for normal use.
Intentional acts by any named insured on the policy (for example, a separated partner still listed on the policy who returns to cause damage).
Tenant-caused intentional damage is typically excluded from a standard homeowner’s policy—landlords should use appropriate landlord or commercial policies and screen tenants carefully.

Special cases

Car insurance: Vandalism to vehicles (broken windows, slashed tires, keyed paint) is usually covered under comprehensive auto coverage, subject to the auto deductible.
Burglary vs. vandalism: Deliberate destruction with no intent to steal is vandalism. If the act is part of a burglary (entry to steal), it may be treated differently under the policy—other perils or theft coverage may apply.

Practical tips

If a household member who is a named insured moves out, update the policy to avoid coverage complications if they later cause damage.
For vacant properties, notify your insurer and consider a vacant-home policy or specific vandalism endorsement.
Improve security: lighting, motion sensors, cameras, fencing, boarded windows, or regular checks can reduce risk and may improve underwriting terms.
Landlords: screen tenants, use a landlord or rental-dwelling policy, and document property condition regularly.

Bottom line

Vandalism and malicious mischief insurance protects against deliberate property damage and is an important supplement to standard property and auto coverage. Review policy language for exclusions (especially vacancy and acts by named insureds), consider endorsements if your property is frequently unoccupied, and take preventive measures to reduce both risk and potential claim problems.