As a homeowner, you know that securing home insurance is one of the most significant ways to protect your property and finances. But what happens when something unexpected, like a cracked window, occurs?
It can be challenging to determine if they cover this type of damage in your home insurance policy. Read on as we tackle questions such as whether all causes of window damage are covered, any situations where you won’t be eligible for coverage, what deductibles may apply, and more.
DOES HOMEOWNERS INSURANCE COVER CRACKED WINDOWS?
When a window in your home is cracked, there’s no doubt that it can be a stressful and expensive situation. Fortunately, if you have the right home insurance coverage, you may not need to worry about footing the entire bill yourself.
Let’s inspect what kind of coverage you can get for repairing or replacing broken windows.
How to Check if Your Home Insurance Policy Covers Cracked Windows
The first step to determining whether your home insurance covers cracked and/or broken windows is to review your policy. Most homeowners policies include coverage for damage caused by windstorms, hailstorms, fire, theft, vandalism, and other covered perils. So if a storm caused a tree branch to break through one of your windows and there is evidence of this in insurance adjuster’s inspection report, then the damage may be considered “covered” by your homeowners policy. However, even if your home insurance policy covers the window replacement, the cost of the window should be considered before filing a claim. Filing a claim that does not exceed your deductible is typically not encouraged by most agents. There are a few exceptions to this thought process, so connect with your trusted agent with questions.
Additionally, check the exclusions listed in your policy — the things that are not covered — so you know exactly what you’ll be responsible for if something happens to one window on your property. Some policies also provide additional coverage for certain items, like roofs and shutters; these items would be specified under the “Additional Coverage” section of the contract.
When determining whether home insurance will cover cracked and/or broken windows on your property, reviewing your policy is always wise before deciding or filing any claims with your insurer. That way, you know exactly what’s covered and what’s not so that you can make informed decisions about how best to protect yourself financially from unexpected damage costs.
What’s more: knowing this information ahead of time will also help ensure that you’re getting all available discounts for having comprehensive home insurance coverage in place.
Keep in Mind That Evidence Matters with Cracked & Broken Windows
Keep in mind, however, if there isn’t enough evidence that a covered peril caused the broken or cracked window damage, then you may still need to cover the cost of repairs and replacements out-of-pocket.
Will Insurance Cover Broken Window Seals and Rotted Windows?
Homeowners insurance policies vary from one provider to another, and with that, it’s difficult to determine what is covered and what isn’t for rotted windows and broken window seals.
In general, home insurance rarely covers wear and tear resulting from the normal aging of windows. However, homeowners can opt for additional coverage for damage caused by storms or other unexpected events that occur outside of regular wear and tear.
Will Homeowners Insurance Cover Replacing Windows?
Replacing your windows with more energy-efficient models can be a great way to save money and help the environment, but it can also come with a hefty price tag. Most home insurance policies will not pay to update windows, doors or roofs as that is part of home ownership.
Does Homeowners Insurance Cover Water Damage From Leaking Windows?
You may be thinking, “what about window leaks?” Well, homeowners insurance can certainly provide peace of mind in the event of unexpected disasters, from fires and burglaries to window leaks.
However, window leaks are not usually seen as a traditional disaster, but water damage from an uncovered leak can add up quickly. Homeowners insurance typically includes coverage for water damage, but with varying levels depending on the policy.
It’s important to consider what kind of coverage you need when purchasing homeowners insurance and to make sure you’re familiar with any stipulations your policy may have regarding the water damage caused by window leaks. That way, you won’t face hefty repair costs after a leak has occurred.
If your window is broken, damaged, or in need of replacement, check your homeowners insurance policy to see when coverage may apply. While you may also need to pay a deductible before your insurance company reimburses you for the cost of repairs, it may lessen the burden for an expensive replacement.
And if you need help finding the best homeowners insurance coverage for the best price, start by speaking to a SimplyIOA agent at 833.872.4467 or get a homeowners insurance quote online now.
