It’s important to understand what your insurance will pay for when it comes to windshield repair. Read this guide for basic information, along with a list a questions to ask your research provider.

Type of Insurance Coverage: Comprehensive Coverage

This is the portion of your insurance where windshield repairs and replacements are most likely to be covered. Comprehensive Coverage covers most vehicle damages that have not been cause by collision, however you may have to inquire as to whether windshield repair is in your plan. Auto insurance companies may only include certain windows, and not your windshield, within your coverage. It’s important to call your insurance company and make sure that windshield repair and replacement is within your Comprehensive Coverage.

Filing the Claim: Is It Worth It?

There are pros and cons to filing a claim with your insurance in order to fix or replace a windshield.

On the positive side, it can save you a lot of money if you have a low deductible. Simply pay the deductible (or nothing, depending on your carrier) and be back on your way. If you don’t have a low deductible, try to find a glass repair service that offers cashback with a windshield repair if you pay through insurance. For example, Mr. Glassworks gives $100.00 cash to the customer if they pay for their repair through insurance. This can help you save money overall, time, and the stress that a broken windshield would bring.

On the negative side, filing a claim may end up costing you more that the repair was worth because it may cause your insurance renewal to increase. Even if it is a small repair, the claim will still exist on your record. But don’t fret—for small repairs, there are ways to inexpensively fix them yourself.

If you’re an Arizona resident, ask your insurance provider about adding a glass waiver to your policy. This will give you a $0.00 deductible for glass repairs.

Choosing Where to Get the Repair: What Options Do You Have?

There are only two options when choosing a glass repair company. If filing through insurance, they may recommend a repair shop with whom they have a contract. In order to get the coverage, you must have the repair done there. Insurance companies will often provide options for you to choose from; you will still be able to pick a repair shop that you feel comfortable with.

Another option is performing research on your own and finding the right glass repair shop for your needs.  Some insurance companies may even provide reimbursements as long as the repairs come from a reputable company. After the repair, you simply submit the receipt from the repair along with your name, policy number, phone number, and date of damage. Of course, always make sure to talk with your provider to clarify reimbursement status.

Talking with Your Insurance

There’s no one right answer for every person, so make sure to call your insurance provider and check what your plan covers. Here is a quick checklist of what to ask:

  • Is my entire windshield repair included in my comprehensive coverage?
  • Will my plan cover the purchase of a completely new windshield, if need be?
  • What is my current deductible amount for a windshield repair?
  • Will filing a claim cause my renewal to increase dramatically?
  • Which repair shops do you have contracts with?
  • Do I qualify for reimbursement if I seek the repairs myself? What is the process for submitting my receipts?

Ultimately, it is your decision whether paying with insurance is right for you. Make sure that you know the ins and outs of your coverage so that you are prepared when you need a windshield repair or replacement.