Stolen Lease Car: Step-by-Step Plan for a Stolen Vehicle

Step 1: Report the theft to the police immediately

Report the theft as soon as possible to the National Intelligence Centre for Vehicle Crime (LIV) or through your local police. The sooner the car is registered as stolen, the greater the chance of recovery and the quicker the insurer can process the claim.

Keep the registration number and Vehicle Identification Number (VIN) to hand.

Note the exact location and time of discovery.

Always request an official copy of the police report (proces-verbaal).

Step 2: Inform the leasing company and insurer

After reporting the theft, immediately inform the leasing company or your insurance broker. They will block any fuel cards and initiate the theft handling protocol.

If the car is covered against theft by a suitable car insurance policy, there is usually a waiting period during which the vehicle is searched for before a final payout or replacement is arranged.

Step 3: Replacement transport and further processing

During the search period, most business contracts entitle you to replacement transport. If the car is not recovered within the specified period, the lease contract will be terminated or converted to a replacement vehicle. Any accessories or personal belongings are often covered by supplementary coverage or contents insurance.

What happens if the car is recovered?

It is possible that your stolen lease car may be recovered after some time, sometimes even in good condition. As soon as the police locate the car, they will contact the owner, which in this case is the leasing company. It is important to know that you do not need to take any action yourself to collect the car, unless otherwise agreed with the leasing company. The procedure for retrieval and any inspection of the vehicle will be fully managed by them.

Upon recovery, the leasing company will inspect the car for any damage or missing parts. Depending on the condition of the vehicle and the agreements made in the lease contract, the car may be reassigned to you, or another solution may be offered. Always discuss the next steps with your leasing company, especially regarding ongoing costs and the continuation of the lease contract. Ensure that all communication and agreements are confirmed in writing.

Prevention is better: tips to reduce the risk of theft

Although theft can never be completely ruled out, you can actively contribute to reducing the risk of your lease car being stolen. One of the most effective methods is to properly lock the car and activate all available security systems, such as an alarm system and immobiliser. Furthermore, always park in well-lit and monitored areas, if available, and avoid leaving valuable items in plain sight, which can attract thieves.

Technological solutions can also play an important role. Consider whether your lease car is equipped with a vehicle tracking system. This not only makes it harder for thieves to move the car unnoticed but also significantly increases the chance that a stolen vehicle will be recovered quickly. Inquire with the leasing company about options for additional security systems or functionalities that contribute to the safety of your lease car.

• Always close all windows and doors, even for short absences.
• Do not leave keys or remote controls in the car.
• Park in a safe, preferably monitored, location.
• Remove navigation systems and valuable items from sight.

Frequently asked questions