Significant Decline in Auto Theft Insurance Claims Reported by IBC
In 2025, auto theft insurance claims experienced a notable decline, an analysis by the Insurance Bureau of Canada (IBC) revealed. This data, sourced from provinces like Alberta, Ontario, Quebec, and the Atlantic regions, shows a 24% drop in claims, with the overall value decreasing by 30% compared to 2024. Despite this trend, Airdrie reported a local rise in vehicle theft incidents.
The IBC reported that the total value of auto theft claims in 2025 amounted to $724 million, a stark increase from $269 million a decade ago. However, the data lacks specifics on Airdrie, where RCMP figures indicate a 20% surge in vehicle thefts from 2024 to 2025. Notably, these figures focus on police reports rather than insurance claims.
Additionally, the Airdrie RCMP's year-end review highlighted a 3% increase in property crime and a 4% rise in total Criminal Code offenses. In 2025, the detachment registered 18,617 cases, a 16.3% rise in calls for service, excluding provincial traffic operations data. The community continues to face issues with property crime, including vehicle break-ins and thefts.
Liam McGuinty, vice-president of federal affairs at IBC, credited the reduction in auto theft claims to joint efforts by the government and law enforcement. He noted challenges persist, with theft statistics still above historical norms affecting public safety.
Impact of Federal Initiatives on Auto Theft Reduction
The IBC recorded 25,834 theft claims in 2025, a decrease from 34,141 in 2024, while the claim value reduced to approximately $724 million from over $1 billion. Over the decade, theft claim numbers grew by 38%, with a 169% rise in total value.
IBC attributes the recent claim decline to enhanced Canada Border Services Agency technology and increased access to transit facilities. Anticipated Criminal Code amendments are expected to further reduce theft incidents.
To sustain progress, IBC urges the Canadian federal government to follow the National Action Plan on Combatting Auto Theft recommendations. These include bolstering Motor Vehicle Safety standards and tightening oversight on vehicle exports, tackling the risk posed by unregulated freight forwarding operations.
According to McGuinty, continuous efforts are paramount to driving down theft rates, noting progress to date. The analysis draws from the General Insurance Statistical Agency systems and Groupement des assureurs automobile, excluding data from Saskatchewan, Manitoba, and British Columbia.