I was stopped at a red light. Someone unstrapped my 40-foot extension ladder from my van’s roof rack and ran off with it. I didn’t notice until I got to the job. I filed a claim. The insurer asked, “Was it locked with a cable or just strapped?”
Key Takeaways
- Exterior Equipment Risks: Tools stored on the outside of a vehicle (ladders, conduit tubes) are high risk. Policies often have specific sub-limits or security requirements for them.
- The “Securely Locked” Clause: Straps (bungees/ratchets) do not count as “locked.” Most policies require a steel cable or padlock to cover theft of exterior items.
- Theft vs. Falling Off: If the ladder falls off on the highway, that is an Auto Liability claim (if it hits a car) or Collision claim (if it hits the ground). Theft is Inland Marine.
- Low Value vs. Deductible: A 40ft ladder costs ~$500. If your deductible is $500, filing a claim is pointless.
The “Why” (The Trap): Ease of Theft
Insurers hate ladder racks. They are essentially open buffets for thieves.
Because of this, many “Tool Floaters” exclude property not stored within a “fully enclosed, locked compartment.” You need to check if your policy has an endorsement for “Property carried on the exterior of a vehicle.” If not, the ladder on the roof is uninsured.
The Investigation: “I Called Them”
I checked specific wording for rack theft.
1. Progressive Commercial Auto
- Result: Only covered if the rack itself was stolen. The ladder is “loose cargo.” Denied.
2. Next Insurance (Tool Coverage)
- Result: Requires evidence that a security device (lock/chain) was cut. If it was just unstrapped, denied.
3. Ladder Locks (The Solution)
- Analysis: Buying a specialized ladder rack with a locking arm (like Adrian Steel or Prime Design) is the only way to guarantee coverage and keep the ladder.
Comparison Table: Exterior Storage
| Security Method | Coverage Probability |
| Bungee Cords / Straps | 0% (Negligence) |
| Cable Lock / Padlock | High (If lock is cut) |
| Locking Rack System | Very High |
| Inside the Van | 100% |
Step-by-Step Action Plan
- Buy a Locking Rack: It looks professional and satisfies the insurance requirement.
- Cable Lock It: If you can’t afford a rack, run a braided steel cable through the rungs and padlock it to the rack.
- Label Your Ladders: Spray paint your company name on the rails. It deters theft and helps recovery.
- Calculate the Math: Don’t file a claim for a $400 ladder. Your rates will go up $100/year for 3 years. It’s cheaper to just buy a new one. Save insurance for the big losses.
FAQ
Q: What if the ladder flies off and hits a windshield?
A: That is Commercial Auto Liability. You are covered for the damage to the other car, but you (likely) lose the ladder.
Q: Are conduit carriers covered?
A: Yes, if they are bolted to the rack, the carrier is covered under Auto. The copper pipe inside is Installation Floater/Inland Marine.
[IMAGE: Photo of a “Ladder clamp” lock system on a van roof rack.]