Applying insurance coverage to vandalism, fires and theft

Policyholders must review their specific insurance policies to analyze the policies’ scope of coverage, exclusions and terms with regard to damage caused by rioters. (Photo: Daniel Tadevosyan/Shutterstock)

During the days and weeks following the death of George Floyd at the hands of Minneapolis police officers, protests erupted in every state across the country. Although most of these protests remained peaceful, there were instances of criminal misconduct and property destruction, such as the breaking of storefront windows and doors, theft and even setting structures ablaze. For those businesses that suffered losses, we have a bit of good news; insurance may help.

A policyholder must review its specific insurance policies to analyze the policies’ scope of coverage, exclusions and terms. That said, broadly speaking, a commercial property policy covers damage to property and its contents when caused by fire, riots or civil commotion or vandalism. It also covers expediting costs, debris removal and business interruption, including from riots, malicious mischief, vandalism and civil commotion. Crime policies generally cover loss resulting from theft and resulting physical damage.