What If Your A/C Unit Gets Stolen or Vandalized in Oklahoma City?

It happened on a quiet Wednesday morning in northwest Oklahoma City. Maria stepped outside to let the dog out and noticed something strange—her air conditioning wasn’t running. It was already climbing into the 80s, and her indoor thermostat flashed 78 degrees. A quick trip around the side of the house revealed the problem:

​her outdoor A/C unit was gone.

Not broken. Not damaged. Completely missing.

This isn’t just a bad dream—it’s a real situation homeowners face in Oklahoma City. And the question hits fast: Does home insurance cover stolen or vandalized A/C units?

need a home insurance quote?

A/C Unit Theft and Vandalism Is More Common Than You Think

While it may seem extreme, theft and vandalism of HVAC equipment happens more often than most people realize. Thieves often target outdoor units for the copper tubing, aluminum coils, or resale value. Sometimes they damage the unit trying to rip it apart. Other times, the whole unit disappears overnight.
​
Whether you're in Edmond, Moore, Yukon, or right in OKC, you’re not immune to these kinds of losses—especially if the unit is visible from the street or unfenced.

Does Homeowners Insurance Cover It?

Yes, in most cases, your standard homeowners policy does cover theft or vandalism to your air conditioning system. Here’s how it usually breaks down:

Dwelling Coverage

If your A/C is considered a permanent fixture—like a central unit attached to your home—it typically falls under dwelling coverage. This means your policy may pay to repair or replace it, minus your deductible.

Personal Property Coverage

If it’s a portable unit (like a window A/C stolen from a shed or garage), it might fall under personal property coverage instead.

Other Structures Coverage

If your A/C unit was located next to a detached garage or guest house, it could fall under coverage for other structures.
It depends on where the unit was and how your policy is structured. That’s why it’s important to review your coverage ahead of time—not after the fact.

What’s Usually Covered

If your claim is accepted, insurance can typically help pay for:
​

• The replacement of the stolen or damaged unit
• Labor and installation costs
• Damage to wiring or home siding during the theft

​What Might Not Be Covered

• Cosmetic damage that doesn’t affect function
• Damage due to lack of maintenance or wear-and-tear
• Higher-end upgrades if your old unit was basic

​And of course, you’ll need to meet your deductible first.

​Tips to Prevent A/C Theft (and Keep Insurance Premiums Down)

While insurance can help, prevention is always cheaper. Consider these simple steps:
​

• Install a security cage around your unit
• Add motion sensor lights near your HVAC area
• Use security cameras to monitor vulnerable areas
• Make sure the unit isn’t visible from the street
• Alert neighbors if you’re out of town

Insurance companies love proactive homeowners. Taking these steps may even help you qualify for discounts on your home insurance.

​When to Call Your Insurance Agent

If your unit is stolen or vandalized, take these steps:
​

1. File a police report immediately
2. Take photos of the area and any damage
3. Call your insurance agent to discuss your policy

You’ll want to move fast before Oklahoma summer temperatures hit full swing. Filing a claim promptly and documenting everything helps make the process smoother.

Protect What Keeps You Cool

At Oklahoma Insurance Professionals, we help homeowners in Oklahoma City and surrounding areas understand what’s actually covered in their home insurance policy—and where the gaps are. If you’re not sure whether your A/C would be protected after a theft, or if your current deductible makes it worth filing a claim, let’s talk.
​
We’re an independent insurance agency that helps Oklahomans get peace of mind—without the surprises. Contact us today to review your policy or get a free quote tailored to your home’s needs.

get the best okc home insurance!

---

Scott Godwin
Founder

Oklahoma Insurance Professionals LLC serves Oklahoma City and the surrounding Oklahoma communities by protecting the people we work with just like we protect our own family members. Home insurance, auto insurance, business insurance, and more. We can help you find the coverage you need. ​​​