Ask an Agent
Have a question? We're here to help.
Ask an agent for free
Question

If my laptop was stolen from my car, how do I get it replaced?

My computer was stolen from my car recently. I have both car insurance and renters insurance, but I'm not sure which one to contact about this. Are electronics even covered? Thanks!

Oct 20, 2022 Wichita, KS

Answer
Author profile picture

Beth Swanson

Insurance Analyst

Beth joined The Zebra in 2022 as an Associate Content Strategist. A licensed insurance agent, she specializes in creating clear, accessible content t…

Credentials
  • Licensed Insurance Agent — Property and Casualty
  • Associate in Insurance

Typically, yes, your property inside the car will be covered by the personal property coverage on your homeowners or renters coverage. Any damage to your car would be covered by your auto insurance policy, but the personal property should be covered by your renters insurance policy, and that includes items inside your vehicle. Renters insurance covers theft and follows you even while you're not at home.

Since you're a renter, you'll want to look at your renters policy to see what your coverage limits are. Clothing, art, and electronics (like your laptop) are covered up to the specific amount stated in your policy. Coverage for electronics can vary, so there isn't a set amount that your policy has to cover. If the car itself was stolen, or requirement used only in the car (like a stereo or navigation system), renters insurance would not cover them and you'd want to contact your auto insurance company.

For folks who are homeowners, the same applies - check your policy to see what perils are covered. If you've got an open peril policy, this will be the most comprehensive and includes any perils that aren't specifically excluded. With a named peril policy the only things covered are those perils specifically named in the policy.

Keep in mind that your renters deductible will be subtracted from the amount you receive for your computer. If the difference in replacing the computer is close to your deductible, it may be worth just replacing it yourself. Good luck!

Ask an Agent
Have a question? We're here to help.
Ask an agent for free

Insurance is complicated, but it doesn't have to be.

The Zebra searches all of the top insurance companies, in one place, so you can compare the cost and coverage you need to protect your car, home and other property.

Step 1: Tell us a little about yourself

Choose an insurance product and enter your zip code to get started.

Step 2: Sip your coffee while we find the best quotes

Enter the necessary information and then sit back while we find quotes from 100 top insurance carriers.

Icon Fill Form

Step 3: Compare your quotes

Compare quotes side-by-side to find the right match for you, whether it's home, auto, or more.

Icon Agent

Step 4: Let our agents do the hard work for you

Once you pick your policy, our agents are here to get you over the finish line. Then just relax and enjoy your savings.

Compare insurance rates today!

Location pin icon
No junk mail. No spam calls. Free quotes.

Related Questions

Other people are also asking...

My liability only car was hit by a stolen vehicle

Unfortunately, the owner of the vehicle that was stolen isn't liable because the fact they didn't give permission to the driver negates any coverage. The individual who stole the vehicle and caused the damage is responsible. I would contact the owner of the vehicle to get the police repor…
Jun 18, 2018 Hutchinson, KS

Can my insurance company add someone to my policy if they share my address?

This is an excellent question. Insurance carriers reserve the right to add anyone that they pull that has used your daughter's address for a mailing address, especially if that person shares a last name and it's where the insured vehicle is garaged for most of the time.They are typically …
Dec 12, 2022 New Tazeville, TN

Do I pay a deductible for a liability claim?

Great question, thanks for reaching out to The Zebra. You are not responsible for a deductible unless you have comprehensive and collision coverage. Since you only have liability insurance, the damages to your car will not be covered which means there is no deductible.Liability coverage is there to…
Dec 17, 2018 Chicago, IL

If I still live at home with my parents, do I need renters insurance?

Technically your personal items and liability would be covered under your parents' homeowners insurance policy while you live under their roof. However, if you had to file a claim you would be doing so under their policy. This could have negative consequences for your parents since almost any …
Jun 14, 2017 Knoxville, TN