The Theft Coverage in Home Insurance: What You Need to Know

The theft insurance guarantee is an essential protection to consider in your home insurance policy. It allows you to be compensated in the event of a burglary or intrusion. In 2025, many comprehensive home insurance policies (assurance multirisque habitation) include it, but it’s important to fully understand its limits. This guide gives you a clear and up-to-date overview.
To learn more about the other protections available, check out our article on assurance multirisque habitation.
What does the theft insurance guarantee cover?
This optional coverage typically includes several types of theft, such as:
- Theft by forced entry or break-in
- Theft involving threats or violence against the insured
- Clandestine intrusions while the occupant is present
- Entry using lock-picking or a stolen key
- Theft committed by a domestic worker (e.g., babysitter, housekeeper), if a formal complaint is filed
In most cases, this coverage is included in your assurance multirisque habitation. Make sure to check with your insurer.
Theft not covered: what to watch out for
Be aware that some types of theft are not covered by this guarantee:
- Theft committed by a relative or family member
- Items stolen from an undeclared basement, garage, or outbuilding
- Personal belongings left in common areas, the yard, or the garden
To avoid unpleasant surprises, carefully read the general terms of your policy. For more details, visit service-public.fr.
What to do in case of burglary or theft
If a break-in or theft occurs, act quickly:
- Report the incident to the police or gendarmerie as soon as possible
- Notify your insurer within 2 business days of discovering the incident
You can declare the theft using one of the following methods:
- By phone
- Through your insurer’s website
- By visiting your insurance agency
- Or by registered mail with acknowledgment of receipt
An insurance adjuster may be sent to your home to assess the damage and determine your compensation.
Summary: why subscribe to theft insurance?
Here’s what to remember about this coverage in 2025:
- It covers theft involving break-in, threat, or violence
- It may apply in the case of theft by a registered domestic worker
- It does not cover theft by family members or items stolen from unsecured external spaces
- A quick and complete declaration is essential to trigger compensation
By comparing policies and reading the terms carefully, you ensure better protection for your home. If in doubt, don’t hesitate to speak with your insurer or a qualified broker.