Repair Cost for Vandalism Claims Increases 37% – Autos Community

Over the past year, the average cost of repairing vehicles damaged by vandalism in Great Britain has surged by 37% and is as much as £10,000 in some regions. Comparing insurance claim figures from Q2 in 2023 and 2024, this new data from famous insurance specialists reflects a growing concern for motorists, as 40% of Brits know someone who has had their car vandalised.

Repair costs are exceptionally high in South East England, where motorists have experienced a massive 400% rise in the past year.

In 2023, the average repair cost in the region was £2,032, whereas now it’s a staggering £10,169.

Scotland has also seen a significant rise in vandalism repair costs, from £2,021 to £3,215 (+59%).

Only two regions have witnessed a decrease in costs. In the North East, the average repair cost in 2023 was £4,781, while in the same period in 2024, it was £2,225 (-53%).

Yorkshire also saw a 21% decrease, from £2,506 to £1,987.

The definition of vandalism varies depending on the insurer, but generally speaking, vandalism – also known as ‘malicious damage’ – simply means deliberate damage to your car.

This can include slashed or purposefully punctured tyres, scratched panels or paintwork by a key or other sharp object, smashed windows (even if nothing was stolen), graffiti, pulled-off or broken wing mirrors, smashed lights, and deliberately dented bodies or panels.

While the cost of repairing these damages varies drastically from region to region, they now cost, on average, 37% more than they did last year.

Quotezone CEO Greg Wilson says part of the increase in some areas could be due to more people starting to own electric vehicles, which typically cost more to fix.

Greg commented on the data: “The significant increase in vandalism repair costs across GB is a stark indicator of the growing challenges motorists face today.

“Part of this increase could be attributed to the rising number of electric vehicles on the road, which are often more expensive to repair. The overall rise in inflation has also driven up the cost of materials such as paint, glass, and replacement parts.

“Modern vehicles, especially luxury cars, also come with more advanced technology and materials that can be costly to fix. For example, damage to sensors and cameras can significantly increase repair costs.

“This recent surge in repair costs is part of the reason car insurance premiums have been soaring – pushing up prices across the board.

“Beyond the financial hit, these incidents are worrying for community safety. Persistent vandalism can affect local neighbourhoods, increasing crime rates, and even driving down property value.”