Are Both Car Keys Required to Claim Car Insurance?

No, you do not always need both car keys to raise a claim under your car insurance. But the insurer may ask for both the original keys when processing a vehicle theft claim. Let's understand the role of keys in car insurance claims in detail so you can avoid any unnecessary hassle and ensure a smoother claim process.Read more

Why Insurance Companies Ask for Both Car Keys

Car insurance companies require both keys in case of theft claims to confirm two important facts:

• To Rule Out Negligence: It proves that the theft did not happen due to the owner's negligence, such as accidentally leaving a key inside the car.
• To Prevent Insurance Fraud: It also reassures the insurer that you did not hand a key over to a third party to stage a fraudulent claim.

What to do If You Have Lost One Car Key?

If you have lost one car key, follow these steps:

1. Inform your insurer: Notify your insurer if reporting a lost key is required under your policy terms.
2. File an FIR: Visit the nearest police station and file an FIR or missing object report.
3. Replace or deactivate the key: Contact your car dealer or manufacturer to get your key replaced to reduce the risk of misuse. Keep the original invoice/receipt as proof for your insurer.

Can a Car Insurance Claim Be Rejected If You Have Only One Key?

Having only one car key does not automatically mean that your car insurance claim will be rejected. However, in case of a vehicle theft claim, the insurer may consider these points:

• When and how the key was lost
• Whether you informed the police or insurer about the loss
• Whether you took reasonable steps to safeguard your car
• The circumstances surrounding the theft
• The documents and proof submitted with the claim
• The applicable policy terms & conditions

*Note: Always read your policy terms carefully and inform your insurer if you lose a key to avoid any confusion or surprises when filing a claim.

What Documents May Be Required for a Car Theft Claim?

When filing a car theft claim, you may need to provide:

• FIR or police complaint
• Car insurance policy copy
• Your vehicle registration certificate (RC)
• Driving licence
• Available car keys
• Duly filled & signed claim form
• Vehicle non-traceable certificate (NTC)

Does Key Protect Cover Help If You Lose a Car Key?

The key replacement cover in car insurance is an optional add-on that may cover eligible expenses related to your car keys/lockset when lost, stolen or damaged, subject to the insurer's terms. However, this add-on does not automatically guarantee acceptance of a car theft claim if a key is missing.

IRDAI Guidelines on Car Insurance Claims & Keys

According to IRDAI, there is no fixed rule about submitting both car keys to get compensation for a car insurance theft claim. But some insurers may still require both keys when processing such claims.