What to Do If Your Bullion Is Lost or Stolen

Short answer: make sure you are safe, report the theft to the police and get a reference number, tell your insurer promptly, and give them your records: photos, serial numbers, invoices and a valuation. This is general information, not legal advice.

First steps

• Make sure everyone is safe and the premises are secure.
• Do not disturb the area until the police have looked.
• Report the loss and obtain a crime or incident reference number.

Tell your insurer

Contact your insurer as soon as you can, because policies often require prompt notice. Ask what they need and what the limits are for precious metals. See how to insure your precious metals collection.

Use your records

This is where good records pay off. Give the police and your insurer:

• A list of items with weight, purity and quantity
• Photos, and serial numbers for bars
• Invoices and proof of purchase
• A dated valuation from the melt value

Keep a copy away from where the metal is stored, such as in a private online account. See documenting your metals for insurance.

Tell dealers and buyers

If the items have serial numbers, tell your local dealers and any services the police recommend, so stolen pieces can be recognised if they appear for sale.

After the claim

Review how the metal was stored and protected, update your records, and consider whether your cover and storage still fit. See how to keep your precious metals private.