Not every policy is the same, and the level of cover for windscreen damage can vary. Some insurance policies might cover the repair or replacement of a damaged windscreen as standard, whilst others may offer it as an optional extra. Understanding your policy could save a lot of time, money, and stress when you need repairs.
What Type of Insurance Policy Do You Have?
The type of car insurance you hold can play a big role in whether your windscreen damage is covered. In the UK, there are generally three levels of cover for car insurance: third-party only, third-party, fire, and theft, and fully comprehensive. Each of these comes with different levels of protection for your vehicle.
- Third-party only: This is the minimum level of cover required by law in the UK. It covers damage to other vehicles, but it typically does not include windscreen damage to your own vehicle.
- Third-party, fire, and theft: This adds protection for your vehicle if it's stolen or damaged by fire. However, windscreen damage usually isn't covered under this level of policy.
- Fully comprehensive: The highest level of protection available. Many fully comprehensive policies include windscreen cover, either as part of the standard cover or as an add-on.
If you’re unsure about what type of policy you have, checking your insurance documents or contacting your provider can clarify whether windscreen cover is included. It's always better to know your level of cover before you need to make a claim.
Will Windscreen Repairs Affect My No-Claims Bonus?
One of the biggest concerns for any motorist is how making a claim may impact the no-claims bonus (NCB). The good news is that most insurers won’t count windscreen repair or replacement claims as part of your NCB. However, it’s still decisive to check your specific policy, as some insurers may apply different rules or charge an excess.
It’s worth considering that some policies offer free repairs for minor chips, but if a replacement is required, an excess fee could apply. It’s always a good idea to balance the cost of any excess with the potential cost of paying for repairs privately if the claim could affect future premiums.
What Should You Do If Your Windscreen Is Damaged?
If you discover a chip or crack on your windscreen, taking swift action is important to avoid further damage. Windscreen chips can spread quickly, particularly if the weather changes or the car is driven over uneven surfaces. Leaving a small chip untreated could result in the need for a full replacement, which can be much more costly.
- Contact your insurer: If windscreen cover is part of your policy, your first step should be to inform your insurance provider. They might usually have a recommended service or partner company to handle repairs or replacements.
- Get the damage assessed: Even a small chip can pose a safety risk if left untreated. A qualified technician might determine whether the damage can be repaired or if the entire windscreen needs replacing.
- Arrange repairs promptly: Whether it's a chip or a crack, addressing the issue as soon as possible would be very advantageous. Repairs are often quicker, cheaper, and less invasive than a full windscreen replacement.
Many insurance companies offer mobile repair services, making it convenient to get the work done at home or work without interrupting your day. Acting quickly could help prevent the need for a full windscreen replacement, saving both time and money.
Is There an Excess for Windscreen Claims?
In many cases, windscreen repairs or replacements might come with an excess fee, especially if a full replacement is needed. The excess is the amount you are responsible for paying before the insurance covers the rest. The amount of this excess can vary depending on your provider and policy, so it’s important to review your terms and conditions.
Whilst small chip repairs might be included without any excess, full windscreen replacements usually come with a higher fee. Be sure to balance the excess against the cost of repairs when deciding whether to make a claim.
What Are the Costs If You Don’t Have Windscreen Cover?
If your policy doesn’t include windscreen cover, you may need to pay for the repairs out of pocket. The cost of fixing a small chip is typically much less than replacing the entire windscreen, but the prices can still vary depending on the make and model of your vehicle.
- Chip repair: Fixing a chip can cost between £40 and £100, depending on the size of the damage and the type of windscreen.
- Windscreen replacement: Replacing the entire windscreen can range from £150 to £400 or more, depending on your vehicle’s specifications and any advanced driver-assistance systems (ADAS) integrated into the glass.
It’s always a good idea to compare quotes from different repair providers if you're paying for the repairs yourself. Some services offer free assessments to help you determine whether a repair or replacement is needed.
Can You Get Windscreen Cover as an Add-On?
If your current insurance policy doesn’t include windscreen cover, it may be worth considering adding it as an extra. Many insurers offer this as an additional option for a small annual fee. Adding windscreen cover can give you peace of mind knowing you won’t be hit with unexpected costs if your windscreen is damaged.
When deciding whether to add this cover, think about the types of roads you usually drive on and the likelihood of damage. For example, if you frequently drive on motorways or country roads where debris can be a problem, it may be a wise investment.
Can You Prevent Windscreen Damage?
Whilst some windscreen chips and cracks are unavoidable, there are steps you can take to reduce the risk of damage. Preventive measures can save you from the hassle and expense of dealing with a chipped or cracked windscreen.
- Keep your distance: When driving behind other vehicles, especially lorries or trucks, try to keep a safe distance to avoid loose stones or debris being thrown up at your car.
- Drive carefully on gravel: If you’re driving on gravel roads or surfaces with loose stones, slowing down can help prevent stones from hitting your windscreen.
- Avoid sudden temperature changes: Extreme temperature shifts can cause windscreens to crack. On cold mornings, try to defrost your windscreen gradually rather than using boiling water, which can make existing chips worse.
Taking these precautions won’t guarantee you’ll never get a chip or crack, but they can significantly reduce the risk of windscreen damage.
Should You Use an Approved Windscreen Repairer?
Many insurance providers could have a network of approved repairers they recommend when a claim is made. Using an approved repairer is usually a smoother process, as these companies could handle the paperwork directly with the insurer, and you’ll often get priority service.
However, you can sometimes choose your own repairer if you prefer, although this may mean paying upfront and claiming back the cost later. If you go this route, ensure that the repairer uses quality parts and provides a guarantee for the work carried out.
Conclusion: Don’t Wait Until It’s Too Late
Windscreen damage can be both a nuisance and a safety hazard. Understanding whether your car insurance covers repairs or replacements is high-priority in helping you avoid unexpected costs and potential risks. It’s worth taking a few moments to check your policy, and if necessary, consider adding windscreen cover to protect yourself from costly bills in the future.
For more information about comparing car insurance policies and ensuring you have the right level of cover, explore the options available and get the peace of mind you deserve.
Why not get quotes now?