Does homeowners insurance cover a broken window? Sometimes. It depends on what caused the damage and on how the cost of the replacement compares with your policy’s deductible. Storm damage is usually covered. Wear and tear never is. And if the repair costs less than your deductible, you pay for it yourself either way.
When Does Insurance Cover a Broken Window?
Windows get broken for many reasons, from an accident to hail to a fallen tree limb. When your insurance company reviews a claim, one of the first things it looks at is the cause.
Some policies cover only the specific causes they list. Others cover any cause that is not specifically excluded. The details are in your policy documents.
Weather damage
Homeowners policies generally cover damage caused by the weather, such as a storm that blows a tree branch against the window or hail that cracks the glass.
Accidents
Some policies cover accidental breakage and some do not. A baseball through the living room window may or may not be covered, depending on how your policy is written.
Wear, tear and neglect
No homeowners policy covers damage from normal wear and tear or neglect. For example, if you fail to maintain your windows, they leak, and the water freezes and cracks the glass, you will not be covered.
If you are not sure which causes your policy covers, call your insurance company or agent before you file.
Is the Replacement Cost More Than Your Deductible?
The deductible is the second factor. If you have a high deductible and the cost to replace the window is less than that amount, your policy will not pay anything. In that case it does not matter what caused the damage or whether it was a covered cause. You pay the bill for the new window yourself.
Replacing a window can be expensive, particularly a large one, so it is worth getting a written estimate before you decide whether to file a claim. With a number in hand, you can compare it with your deductible and make an informed choice.
What to Do Right After a Window Breaks
Take photos of the damage and of whatever caused it before you clean up. Your insurer may ask for them.
Wearing gloves, carefully clear the broken glass and cover the opening to keep the weather out until the window can be replaced. Keep receipts for any temporary materials you buy.
Then get an estimate for the replacement and call your agent if the cost looks likely to exceed your deductible.
Replace a Broken Window Promptly
Whatever caused the damage, and whether or not insurance pays, a broken window should be replaced as soon as possible. Until it is, cold air, rain and snow can get into your home.
A new vinyl replacement window will keep cold air out and make your home more energy efficient than the old one did. If a storm also damaged a door, we install entry doors and patio doors and storm doors as well.
Frequently Asked Questions
Does homeowners insurance cover a window my child broke by accident?
It depends on your policy. Some cover accidental damage and some do not, so check with your agent.
Does insurance cover foggy or drafty windows?
No. Failed seals, drafts and rot are considered wear and tear, which homeowners policies do not cover.
Should I file a claim for one broken window?
Only if the replacement costs clearly more than your deductible. For a single standard window, it often does not.
Get an Estimate for Window Replacement from Aladdin
Aladdin has been serving Connecticut homeowners since 1949. If you have a broken window, contact us to get an estimate or call (203) 776-9996, and you will know what the replacement costs before you talk to your insurer.