What do I do if my mailbox is vandalized?

If you have information on mailbox vandalism or mail theft in your area, report it to your local Post Office™ or to the Postal Inspection Service at 1-800-ASK-USPS (1-800-275-8777).

What do I do if my mailbox is damaged?

All damaged and destroyed mailboxes must be replaced by the property owner, or mail delivery will not continue. If your mailbox has been damaged to the point where delivery is not possible, you can contact your local USPS office to make arrangements for holding your mail at the post office until the repairs are made.

Is Destroying a mailbox a felony?

Mailboxes are protected by federal law, and crimes against them and the mail they contain are considered a federal offense. Violators can be fined up to $250,000 or imprisoned for up to three years for each act of vandalism. Mailbox vandalism affects all of us.

How do I report a broken mailbox?

Report suspected mail losses to Postal Inspectors by calling 877-876-2455 or at www.uspis.gov.

How do I protect my mailbox from vandalism?

Get a Reinforced Mailbox Typically, get an option that can withstand vandalism and other destruction attempts. There are companies out there that can make a custom mailbox with sturdy features and a lock. Ensure the brackets are made from durable steel. You’ll want to use galvanized bolts to install your new mailbox.

Who is responsible for repairing cluster mailboxes?

According to USPS regulations, the property owners, builders, or developers are responsible for repairing cluster mailboxes. Property owners can appoint a manager to ensure that the mailbox meets the postal service regulations.

How much does it cost to fix a mailbox?

The average cost to replace a mailbox and post is about $125 when you do the work yourself. If you hire a handyman for installation, expect an average cost closer to $285.

Can I replace my mailbox?

Can You Replace Your Mailbox? You can install a mailbox on your property, provided that you follow the relevant United States Postal Service regulations regarding location, size, and construction standards.

Can I destroy my own mailbox?

Because the postal service considers mailboxes to be government property, destroying one is a federal offense, punishable by up to three years in prison and a fine of $250,000 for each charge.

How much does it cost to replace mailbox lock?

The lock itself is normally cost more or less $5, which you can purchase at any hardware store. If you hire a locksmith to get the old one out, it will cost you around $35 to $60 depending on the locksmith’s professional fee or service fee.

Is it normal for mailboxes to be vandalized?

People living in rural or isolated areas tend to experience vandalism most because their mailboxes are usually isolated. Residental mailboxes are somewhat safe, but there are occasional vandalism cases. Dealing with regular mailbox vandalism can be quite annoying. The last thing you want is duct taping it every time it’s vandalized.

How can I report vandalism to the postal service?

For example, the U.S Postal Service has a law enforcement and security arm that deals with such cases. They have an online form that you can fill when reporting a vandalism case. The Postal Inspection Service will give you Label 33, which you can stick to your mailbox to warn potential vandals.

Is it a crime to destroy a mailbox?

Mailboxes are protected by federal law and crimes against mailboxes (and the mail inside) are investigated by Postal Inspectors. Those who are convicted of destruction of federal property could spend up to three years in jail and be fined up to $250,000. If playback doesn’t begin shortly, try restarting your device.

How to stop mailbox vandalism in New Hampshire?

Eddie Carrara (author) from New Hampshire on May 31, 2017: Solar makes a heavy duty 1/8th-inch steel mailbox, maybe you could find a mobile welder to attach it to your post, or have the box hang from chains so when the kids hit it, it just swings out of the way?