
Imagine this: Your shop or office gets robbed, but the insurance company says, "Sorry, we cannot pay your claim."
Why? It is because they used a stolen 🔑 or access card to walk right in! No break in was observed.
This is an ongoing issue for businesses, especially in buildings like a mall with apartments above. Most Burglary Insurance (often included in Fire Insurance) only covers theft with proof of a forced entry such as a broken 🚪 or smashed 🪟
What if the thief did not break anything? They could have stolen a key card and waltz right in. Do not be shocked to learn that your insurance may not cover the loss!
Why "Forced Entry" Rules Can Be a Problem
1. Most Burglary Insurance Requires "Breaking In"
✔ Covered: Smashed windows, broken locks, crowbar marks on doors.
❌ Not Covered: Theft using a stolen key, access card, or an unlocked door.
2. Modern Thieves Don’t Always "Break In"
Criminals today are smart. Instead of smashing doors, they might:
Steal a key or access card from a worker, cleaner, or resident;
Copy a key without anyone noticing;
Wait for someone to forget to lock a door.
If they enter without force, your insurance cliam can be denied.
3. Mixed Buildings Are at Higher Risk
If your business is in a building with both shops and homes, the risk is even higher because:
Many people have access (residents, delivery guys, cleaners).
A stolen key or card can be used to enter legally, no "break-in" needed.
Insurers often deny claims if there’s no sign of forced entry.
📌 Real-Life Example: When Insurance Doesn’t Pay
A small 👕 store in a mixed-use building had Burglary Insurance. One night, a thief stole an access card from a resident, used it to enter the building, and stole RM50,000 worth of goods.
The store owner filed a claim, but the insurance company rejected it because:
No doors or windows were broken;
The thief entered "legally" with a card;
Policy only covered "forcible entry."
Result: The store lost 💰 and insurance didn’t help.
How to Protect Your Business
1. Check Your Insurance Policy
Does it only cover "forced entry" theft?
Is there an option to add "theft without break-in" coverage?
2. Ask About "Theft" or "Mysterious Disappearance" Coverage
Some insurers offer extra protection that covers theft even if nothing was broken.
3. Improve Security
Install CCTV (to prove theft happened).
Track who enters/exits (access logs help with claims).
Change locks/keys regularly (if employees leave).
Take action now:
✔ Review your policy: does it cover theft without forced entry?
✔ Upgrade security: make it harder for thieves to enter unnoticed.
✔ Get the right coverage: so you’re not left paying for losses yourself!
Contact us to make sure your business is truly protected!