Updated: July 5, 2024
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To get homeowners insurance to pay for new windows, a covered peril must cause damage that leads to the need for a replacement. After the damage, you need to follow a specific claim process. Start by documenting the damage with photos and detailed notes, then contact your insurance company to report the incident. By understanding your policy and communicating regularly with your insurer, you can navigate the claims process efficiently and ensure your window replacement is covered.
Homeowners insurance covers broken window replacement if a covered peril causes the damage. Typically, this includes incidents such as storms and vandalism. Here are some common covered perils that might qualify for home insurance window replacement:
Storms
Wind, hail or severe weather damaging your windows, such as a tree branch breaking a window during a windstorm or hailstones cracking the glass, is usually covered.
Vandalism
Your policy usually covers intentional damage caused by someone else, such as a vandal breaking a window with a rock or other object.
Fire
Damage from a fire can cause windows to crack, break or warp due to the intense heat and flames, and is usually covered by home insurance.
Theft
Home insurance typically covers damage from a break-in or attempted break-in, where thieves might break windows to gain access to the home.
Falling Objects
Broken windows caused by a tree branch hitting your window during a storm or other unexpected objects falling and damaging the glass or window frame are usually covered.
Homeowners insurance typically doesn’t cover window replacement if the damage is due to general wear and tear or lack of maintenance. This includes issues like old age, gradual deterioration or neglect. Here are some everyday situations where home insurance likely won't cover window replacement:
Wear and Tear
Home insurance doesn't cover the deterioration or aging of windows over time, such as rotting frames, broken seals or cracked panes, which occur naturally and are expected with long-term use.
Neglect
Damage resulting from a lack of proper maintenance, such as failing to repair minor damages that eventually lead to larger issues or not addressing leaks and moisture problems that cause window frames to weaken and decay, is not usually covered.
Intentional Damage
Any damage you or a resident intentionally cause, including breaking a window deliberately or any acts of vandalism committed by someone living in the household, is likely not covered.
Flooding
Damage caused by flooding is typically only covered under homeowners insurance policies if you have specific flood insurance, which is usually purchased separately and provides coverage for flood-related damages.
Earthquakes
Most standard policies do not cover earthquake damage. Specific earthquake insurance is required to cover damages from seismic activity, which can cause significant structural damage, including broken windows.
Homeowners insurance can pay for new windows if a covered peril causes the damage and you follow the proper claim process. Start by documenting the damage thoroughly with photos and detailed notes to prove that a covered peril caused the damage.
Here are the steps to help ensure the success of your home insurance window replacement claim:
Clearly capture the damage to your windows with images and describe it in full, including the incident's date and cause. This paperwork will be necessary for your claim.
As soon as you can, notify your insurance company of the damage. To initiate the claim procedure, give the provider your supporting papers and any helpful additional information.
Speak with a certified contractor to acquire a quote for replacement or repair. This might be necessary for your insurance provider to assess the degree and expense of the damage.
An insurance adjuster may come to your house to evaluate the damage. Show them the impacted windows and give them any other required information.
Familiarize yourself with the details of your homeowners insurance policy, including your deductible and coverage limitations, to ensure you are aware of what is covered and any potential out-of-pocket expenses.
Continue communicating with your insurer regularly to monitor the status of your claim and supply any additional details it may need. By following up, you can ensure that you receive the required coverage for your window replacement and speed up the process.
The best homeowners insurance providers offer excellent customer service and clear communication, making it easier to navigate the claims process. You can help ensure a smooth experience by keeping all receipts and records related to the window repair or replacement process. This practice can help with reimbursement and ensure you have documentation for future reference.
About Mark Fitzpatrick
Mark Fitzpatrick is a Licensed Property and Casualty Insurance Producer and MoneyGeek's Head of Insurance. He has analyzed the insurance market for over five years, conducting original research and creating personalized content for every kind of buyer. He has been quoted in several insurance-related publications, including CNBC, NBC News and Mashable.
Fitzpatrick earned a master’s degree in economics and international relations from Johns Hopkins University and a bachelor’s degree from Boston College. He is passionate about using his knowledge of economics and insurance to bring transparency around financial topics and help others feel confident in their money moves.
