Does Homeowners Insurance Cover Broken Windows?
Homeowners insurance typically covers the cost to repair or replace a broken window if the damage was caused by a covered event.
Whether it’s due to a storm, an accident, or even vandalism, having a broken window can be a headache.
You might be wondering if your homeowners insurance will cover the cost of fixing it. In this article, we’ll take a look at when homeowners insurance might help with broken windows and when it might not.
With over 20 years of experience in the insurance industry, I can help guide you through what’s covered and what you need to be aware of when it comes to repairing broken windows. Let’s break it down!
Key Takeaways
Homeowners insurance usually covers window damage, as long as it wasn’t caused by regular wear and tear or poor maintenance.
Windows are typically included in your dwelling coverage, which means you’re generally protected from damage unless your policy specifically excludes the cause.
It’s only worth filing an insurance claim for a broken window if the repair costs are higher than your insurance deductible.
Does Homeowners Insurance Cover Broken Windows
Homeowners insurance typically covers the cost to repair or replace a broken window if the damage was caused by a covered event. These covered events, known as “perils,” include things like hurricanes, tornadoes, hail, falling trees, or vandalism.
In some cases, if a neighbor causes damage to your window, their liability insurance may help cover the repair costs, rather than your own policy. It’s important to remember that your homeowners insurance will not cover damage caused by neglect or general wear and tear, so maintaining your windows is crucial.
Always review your policy to know what types of damage are covered and consider contacting your insurer if you’re unsure.
When Does Homeowners Insurance Cover Broken Windows?
Homeowners insurance can help pay for the repair or replacement of broken windows, but it only covers certain types of damage. Knowing when your insurance will cover a broken window can help you decide whether to file a claim.
Below are the common situations when homeowners insurance typically covers window damage.
Damage Caused By Severe Weather
If a storm, tornado, or hail causes your window to break, homeowners insurance usually covers the cost of repairs. This is because damage caused by severe weather is typically listed as a covered peril in most policies.
Vandalism
If someone intentionally breaks your window through vandalism, your homeowners insurance may cover the repair costs. You’ll need to file a police report to document the incident and submit it with your insurance claim.
Falling Trees Or Objects
If a tree or other large object falls and breaks your window, this damage is usually covered by homeowners insurance. This includes tree limbs or debris from a neighboring property.
Accidental Damage By Neighbour
If a neighbor accidentally damages your window, such as during construction or yard work, their liability coverage might help pay for repairs. However, you would need to file a claim under their insurance policy, not yours.
Fire Or Smoke Damage
If a fire or smoke causes your window to break, your homeowners insurance can help pay for the damage. Fire is a common covered peril in standard policies.
When Does Homeowners Insurance Not Cover Broken Windows?
While homeowners insurance can cover broken windows in certain situations, there are cases where the damage will not be covered. It’s important to know when your policy won’t help pay for repairs so you can avoid filing a claim that won’t be successful.
Below are common situations when homeowners insurance typically does not cover broken windows.
Damage Due To Wear & Tear
If your window is broken because of normal wear and tear, such as age, rust, or deterioration, homeowners insurance usually won’t cover the repair. Insurance doesn’t cover damage caused by long-term neglect or lack of maintenance.
Accidental Damage By You
If the window is broken due to your own accident or carelessness, such as accidentally hitting it with a ball or bumping into it while moving furniture, insurance won’t cover the repair costs. Homeowners insurance typically doesn’t cover self-inflicted damage.
Damage From Earthquakes
Most standard homeowners insurance policies do not cover damage from earthquakes, including broken windows caused by ground shaking. If you live in an area prone to earthquakes, you may need to add earthquake coverage to your policy for this kind of damage.
Damage Caused By Flooding
Flood damage is usually excluded from standard homeowners insurance policies. If a flood or water damage breaks your windows, you would need flood insurance, which is a separate policy.
Negligence
If the window breaks because of neglect, such as leaving it open during a storm, your homeowners insurance will likely not cover the repair costs. Insurers expect you to take reasonable precautions to protect your property.
Should I File A Claim For A Broken Window
While your home insurance’s dwelling coverage is meant to protect your home’s structure, including broken windows, filing a claim might not always be the best choice. In some cases, it could be better to pay for the repair yourself.
Filing a claim can often lead to higher insurance premiums, and the cost to replace the window might not be higher than your deductible, the amount you need to pay out of pocket before your insurance covers the rest.
How To File A Claim For A Broken Window?
If you’ve experienced a broken window and want to file a claim with your homeowners insurance, it’s important to follow the right steps. Here’s how you can file a claim for a broken window:
Check Your Insurance Policy
First, review your insurance policy to make sure that window damage is covered. Make sure the damage happened due to a covered cause, like a storm, vandalism, or a falling tree.
Assess the Damage
Examine the window and surrounding area to understand the extent of the damage. Make sure to take photos of the broken window and any other damage that may have occurred.
Contact Your Insurance Company
Call your insurance company and let them know about the broken window. Be ready to provide details about how the damage occurred, when it happened, and the cost of repairs (if you know it).
File a Claim
Fill out the necessary claim forms your insurer provides. Be honest and accurate when describing the damage.
Get Repair Estimates
Some insurance companies may ask for repair estimates before they approve the claim. It’s a good idea to contact a professional to assess the damage and give you an estimate.
Wait for an Adjuster
An insurance adjuster may visit your home to inspect the damage in person. They’ll determine whether the damage is covered and how much the insurance will pay.
Complete the Repairs
Once the claim is approved, you can get your window repaired. Make sure to keep all receipts and invoices related to the repair work, as the insurance company may require them for reimbursement.
How To Prevent Broken Windows?
Preventing broken windows can save you money on repairs and help avoid insurance claims. Here are some simple ways to protect your windows:
- Regularly Check for Damage: Inspect your windows often to spot any cracks, leaks, or damaged seals.
- Ensure Proper Sealing: Check the seals around your windows and apply caulk when needed to keep out moisture.
- Keep Windows Clean and Well-Maintained: Clean your windows regularly and fix any small problems before they get worse.
FAQs
Does homeowners insurance cover a broken window caused by a storm?
Yes, homeowners insurance usually covers windows broken by a covered peril, like a storm, hail, or strong winds. These are considered “covered perils,” so your insurance will help pay for repairs.
Will homeowners insurance cover a broken window caused by my neighbor?
If your neighbor accidentally breaks your window, their insurance might cover the cost if they have liability coverage. If not, your homeowners insurance might help, depending on the situation.
Does homeowners insurance cover broken windows caused by wear and tear?
No, homeowners insurance typically does not cover damage caused by wear and tear or lack of maintenance. If a window is broken due to age or neglect, you will need to pay for repairs yourself.
