A standard homeowners insurance policy offers several coverages that could assist in replacing a broken window. Depending on what caused the window to break, dwelling coverage, other structures coverage, or liability coverage may be applicable. Here are some circumstances in which homeowners’ insurance could assist with a window repair Ottawaclaim.
Because your insurance policy only covers you in specific scenarios, the way the window broke may influence your ability to file a claim. You have the option of using either named-peril or open-peril. Because a named-peril policy only covers losses caused by hazards specifically stated in the policy, or you may be left uninsured. On the other hand, open-peril insurance covers damage to the property caused by various risks.
For example, if your window breaks in a hailstorm, both types of plans will cover the same. However, because it doesn't specifically cover accidents, the usual named-risk policy won't protect you if it shattered when you knocked over a ladder that fell through the window.
What happens if my window is broken?
Standard homeowners’ insurance helps cover specific hazards mentioned in your policy, which are referred to as perils. Vandalism, hail, fire, theft, and wind damage are common causes of home insurance claims.
You may be able to file a home insurance claim on your dwelling coverage if one of your window panes is smashed by hail. For example, Your other structures coverage may assist pay for repairs if the damaged window is on a detached structure, such as a shed or detached garage.
Insurance for your house limits and deductibles
Remember that a damaged window claim will almost certainly require you to pay your deductible. The amount you pay out of pocket before your insurance comes in to assist cover the claim is known as your deductible. When you buy homes insurance, you can usually set your deductible.
You may not be able to file a claim even if your homeowner's insurance covers the cause of the broken window. You may always expect to pay out of pocket for some repairs because you're responsible for the amount of your deductible.
If you have high-deductible insurance to minimize your rates and the cost of window repair Ottawais cheap, the replacement cost may not surpass your deductible. It doesn't matter if your insurance coverage covers the damage in this scenario.
If the cost of restoring a broken window is less than your deductible, you will be responsible for the cost of the repairs (likely without reimbursement from your insurer). However, if your deductible is smaller than the window repair cost, your homes insurance will most likely cover the difference up to the extent of your coverage.
Let's say your window was broken during a break-in, and the cost of repairs is $700. However, your deductible for dwelling coverage is $1,000. Therefore, repairs would have to be paid for entirely out of your pocket. Let's say your deductible was $500. You would pay $500 for the window repair and receive a $200 reimbursement from your insurance company.
Wear and tear is obvious
Because you must maintain your house, all homeowners’ plans exclude coverage for normal wear and tear. While this may appear to be a minor detail, it can significantly impact how your insurance considers your claim.
You'll be covered if your window breaks during a storm because a limb blew into it. However, suppose it breaks because water seeped in via unmaintained seals and expanded as it froze, splitting the pane. In that case, your insurance company will blame wear and tear – and your lack of maintenance – rather than the weather event that caused it.
Making Claims and Its Consequences
Whether you're filing a claim after a huge disaster, such as a fire, or a minor one, such as a broken window, the administrative fees associated with processing a claim are virtually the same. Although your insurance company is required to process small claims that fall within your policy's restrictions, a string of small claims can be costly to your insurer due to administrative costs, and it can result in rate hikes.
What if I break another person's window?
Let's say you or your youngster throws a ball through a neighbor's window by mistake. Your home's policy's liability coverage may assist pay for repairs if you accidentally damage another person's property. On most residential liability policies, you will not be required to pay a deductible.
What if my window is broken?
Typically, homeowner's insurance does not cover unintentional damage to your own home. So if your child tosses a ball through your home's window or you fracture a windowpane by accident, you'll almost certainly have to pay for the repair yourself.
Also, keep in mind that homeowner's insurance does not cover window maintenance and wear and tear. For example, homeowners insurance will not cover the cost of your window needing to be repaired or replaced because it is draughty.
Home insurance may or may not cover broken window seals. Fog or moisture between double-glazed windows can signal a damaged seal, and according to research, manufacturers give guarantees of up to 20 years on window seals. However, remember that homeowners insurance is unlikely to cover it unless the damage is caused by a sudden or unexpected risk — such as hail, fire, or theft.
It's a good idea to know when your homeowner's insurance covers broken windows and to double-check that your deductibles and coverage limitations are appropriate for your needs. A local agent can answer your questions and help you alter your policy if necessary.
Conclusion
While you are now aware of the basic information about insurance coverage in case of broken windows, it may still not be enough. That's why consulting with experts is the best option whenever you want to hire window repair Ottawa professionals, and Window Medics is undoubtedly the team that can offer you the best solutions. The experts at Window Medics are highly experienced and can tell you whether the services you are looking for are covered under your homeowner's insurance. Get in touch with a Window Medics expert at 613-519-1317. You canalso send an email at [email protected]