Willard Lecount says...
In many states, it is considered an unfair claims practice for an insurer to suggest that you NOT file a claim.That said, you need to answer for yourself if it is really in your best interests to file a claim.
For example, what is your deductible on your policy?What is the replacement cost of the items that were stolen?If you have a $500 deductible and only $510 of items were stolen, is it really worth it to file a claim to receive just $10?
As far as the possibility of increasing your premiums, some companies do offer a claim-free discount.Most that I know of do not increase your premiums from a claim.My concern would be more the ability to obtain insurance in the future.Having a theft claim on your insurance record will make it difficult for you to obtain homeowners or renters insurance for at least the next three years.
One word of caution for you:in the state where I sell insurance, if you ask your agent if you should submit a claim, you pretty much have at that point:they have an obligation to report all claims to the companies that they represent once they have notice of a claim.
Good luck with your situation!
Posted on August 11, 2010
When I was on vacation my apartment was broken into.