If you have ever dealt with a cracked window, a failed glass sealed unit, a sticking toe and heel door or any kind of damage to your double glazing, you have probably wondered whether your home insurance will help cover the cost.
It is a common question for both homeowners and businesses across the South Coast, especially when you are faced with the stress of a sudden breakage or an urgent window repair. The good news is that in many cases insurance can help, but it is not always as clear as people expect.
This guide takes you through everything you need to know in a friendly and easy to understand way, so you can make informed decisions and avoid unexpected costs.
Most home insurance policies are designed to help protect your property from sudden and unexpected damage. This usually includes events such as storms, break ins, accidents and vandalism. When it comes to double glazing repairs, your insurer will look at the cause of the damage first. If the damage was sudden and beyond your control, there is a good chance that your policy may provide cover.
For example, if a storm sends debris flying into your window and you now need glass replacement, your insurer is more likely to help. If someone attempts to break in and leaves you with damaged frames or smashed glass sealed units, this also usually falls under insurable events. Even accidental damage, such as a ball hitting your window or a ladder falling against a pane, may be covered if you have an accidental damage add on included in your policy.
However, insurance does not normally cover issues that develop slowly over time. Problems such as misted windows caused by deteriorating seals, worn hinges, or glazing repairs needed due to age and natural wear and tear are often classed as maintenance rather than damage. In these cases, you may still need window replacement or double glazing repairs, but the responsibility typically sits with the homeowner or business owner rather than the insurer.
If you decide to make a claim for window repair or double glazing repairs, the process is usually straightforward. After you contact your insurer, they may ask you to provide photos, a description of the incident, and sometimes any additional details about how the damage occurred. They may also request a professional assessment from a glazing specialist. This is where companies like RPS Double Glazing Repairs can help, as they understand exactly what insurers look for and can provide clear, accurate information.
Once the insurer has all the necessary details, they will assess your claim. If they agree that the cause of damage is covered, they may either arrange their own contractor to carry out the glazing repairs or allow you to choose your own trusted repair service. In many cases, customers prefer to use their own local specialist as they know they will receive a quicker response time and a more personal service.
It is also worth noting that you may need to pay an excess. This is the contribution you agree to pay when you make a claim. Whether it is worth claiming often depends on the value of the repair compared with the cost of your excess.
There are several examples where home insurance often helps with double glazing repairs.
Storm damage is one of the most common. High winds along the South Coast can create flying debris that cracks panes or damages frames. In these situations, insurers often agree that the cause was out of your control.
Break ins and attempted break ins are also widely covered. If thieves damage your windows or doors when trying to gain entry, insurers will typically cover the cost of window replacement or glass replacement as part of their buildings insurance commitments.
Accidental damage is another area where many policies offer support, as long as the policy includes accidental damage cover. Whether someone slips and knocks furniture against a window or a customer at your business premises accidentally damages a glass sealed unit, these events can often be included.
Unfortunately, not all glazing repairs qualify for insurance support. If the damage is caused by gradual deterioration, worn seals or poor installation, insurers tend to class it as wear and tear. For example, misted units, loose hinges or stiff toe and heel doors are rarely approved for claims because they are usually seen as maintenance issues.
Issues caused by lack of upkeep, such as rotting frames or poorly maintained windows, are also unlikely to be covered. Home insurance is designed for unexpected events rather than long term problems that arise naturally over time.
Understanding this distinction can save you time, stress and disappointment when trying to claim for double glazing repairs.
Whether your claim is approved or not, having a trusted glazing professional inspect the damage can make a huge difference. A specialist can quickly identify the cause of the problem, provide the evidence your insurer needs, and explain your repair options clearly. This is especially important with more technical issues, such as heel and toe windows or a toe and heel door that has shifted alignment. Accurate assessments help insurers understand whether the damage is sudden, accidental or the result of gradual wear.
A glazing specialist can also advise you on the most cost effective solution. In some cases, repairing a unit is better than full window replacement. In other cases, replacing your glass sealed units may be the most secure and energy efficient choice.
If you ever find yourself unsure about whether your double glazing repair can be claimed through your home insurance, it can be reassuring to have a friendly expert on hand. RPS Double Glazing Repairs supports many homeowners and businesses across the South Coast and is always happy to offer advice, provide quotes or help with emergency glazing situations. Whether you need glazing repairs, glass replacement, window repair or full window replacement, you can reach out any time for guidance without any pressure or obligation.