Does Homeowner’s Insurance Cover a Stolen Cell Phone?

The theft of a cell phone is considered a direct physical loss of property and it may be covered under your homeowner’s insurance.

Keep in mind, however, that a deductible may apply.

Unfortunately, your insurance will not likely cover the thief’s subsequent use of the phone.

For that reason, it is important that you keep a close watch on your cell phone as you would your wallet or purse.

Be mindful of where your phone is at all times and be careful about whom you lend it to.

Take advantage of the password-protection feature on your phone. Read the user guide to learn how to “lock” your phone or enable the “password” feature to prevent a thief from making unauthorized calls.

Contact your cell phone service provider as soon as you realize your phone is missing. Be sure to keep detailed records, including the date and time you called your carrier, the name and ID number of the representative to whom you spoke, and what instructions you were given.

File a police report as your insurance carrier or phone service provider may request verification of the theft.

The Better Business Bureau reports that an estimated 600,000 cell phones will either be lost or stolen this year.