07/11/2012
A cracked or chipped windscreen is an unfortunate but common occurrence for many motorists across the UK. Whether it's a stone flicking up on the motorway or an unexpected impact, windscreen damage can range from a minor nuisance to a significant safety concern. When faced with such damage, a primary question often arises: do I need to make a claim on my car insurance? Understanding your policy, the implications of claiming, and the options available to you is crucial for making an informed decision and ensuring your vehicle is safely back on the road without unnecessary hassle or expense.
While it might seem straightforward, the process of claiming for windscreen damage involves several considerations, from the type of damage to your chosen repairer and the financial implications of your policy's excess. This article will delve into these aspects, providing a comprehensive guide to help you navigate the often confusing world of windscreen insurance claims.
- Understanding Your Windscreen Insurance Cover
- The Crucial Role of Your Excess in Windscreen Claims
- Navigating Approved Repair Networks: A Key Decision
- Repair or Replace: What's the Best Option?
- The Claim Process for Windscreen Damage
- Beyond the Windscreen: Damage from Broken Glass
- Frequently Asked Questions
- Conclusion
Understanding Your Windscreen Insurance Cover
Most comprehensive car insurance policies in the UK include cover for windscreen damage, but the specifics can vary significantly. Generally, if your windscreen is damaged or needs to be replaced, your policy will outline the provisions for addressing this. This often extends beyond just the main windscreen to include other windows of your vehicle, and crucially, any scratches to the bodywork of your car that occur as a direct result of broken glass.
When assessing a claim for windscreen damage, insurers typically present two primary options. Firstly, they can arrange and pay to repair or replace the windscreen or windows directly. This is often the most convenient option, as the insurer manages the logistics with an approved repairer. Secondly, they may offer to pay you an amount equal to the loss of or damage to the windscreen or windows, less any applicable excess. This flexibility allows for situations where you might prefer to arrange the repair yourself, though it's vital to understand the potential implications of this choice, particularly concerning the use of non-approved repairers.
The Crucial Role of Your Excess in Windscreen Claims
An excess is the initial amount of money you have to pay towards a claim, regardless of who is at fault. It's a standard feature of most insurance policies and applies to windscreen claims just as it does to other types of vehicle damage. The amount of your windscreen excess can vary; sometimes it's a fixed amount specified in your policy, and it might even be lower than your general policy excess to encourage repairs or replacements through insurance rather than neglecting safety issues.
When considering whether to make a claim, especially for minor damage, it's essential to weigh the cost of the repair against your excess. For example, if you have a small chip that could be repaired for less than your excess amount, it might be more economical to pay for the repair out-of-pocket rather than making a claim. This avoids involving your insurer and potentially impacting future premiums, though windscreen-only claims often have less impact than other types of claims.
It's important to note that the excess amount can also be influenced by your choice of repairer. As we will explore, opting not to use an insurer's approved network can lead to an increase in the compulsory excess you are required to pay, adding an extra financial consideration to your decision-making process.
A significant aspect of making a windscreen claim involves your insurer's network of approved repairers. Insurance companies, like many service providers, establish relationships with a network of garages and specialists that meet their quality standards and pricing agreements. This system is designed to streamline the repair process, ensure quality, and manage costs effectively for both the insurer and the policyholder.
Your insurer will normally use a network of approved repairers to replace or repair your car or any part of it. This practice is widespread because it allows insurers to guarantee a certain level of service and often enables them to process claims more efficiently. For you, the policyholder, using an approved repairer typically means a smoother experience, with direct billing to the insurer and often a guarantee on the work carried out.
However, the choice of repairer is not always entirely at your discretion if you wish for your claim to be fully covered. Following an accident or damage, you must use a supplier that has been agreed by your insurer before your car is repaired. Failure to do so could have significant financial repercussions. Insurers explicitly state that if you choose not to use one of their approved repairers, they may not pay the full cost of the repair. Furthermore, some policies, as indicated by the example provided, will increase your compulsory excess by a set amount, for instance, £100, if you opt for a non-approved repairer. This additional cost is designed to encourage policyholders to utilise the insurer's preferred network.
While you might have a trusted local garage, the financial implications of not using an approved repairer, such as an increased excess, make it a critical factor to consider. Always check with your insurer first, as they can guide you towards their approved partners, ensuring your claim proceeds without unexpected additional charges.
Approved vs. Non-Approved Windscreen Repairers: A Comparison
Understanding the differences between using an approved repairer and an independent one is vital for making an informed decision about your windscreen repair.
| Feature | Using an Approved Repairer | Using a Non-Approved Repairer |
|---|---|---|
| Cost Implication | Typically, only your standard windscreen excess applies. Insurer covers the rest directly. | Your standard windscreen excess applies, PLUS an additional compulsory excess (e.g., £100). Insurer may not cover full cost. |
| Insurer Approval | Mandatory for full coverage. Repairer is pre-vetted and agreed upon by the insurer. | Must be agreed by insurer before repair, otherwise, potential non-payment or increased excess. |
| Quality Assurance | Work often guaranteed by the insurer and repairer, meeting insurer's standards. | Quality relies solely on the chosen garage; insurer may not guarantee work or resolve disputes. |
| Convenience | Streamlined process; insurer often arranges appointments and direct billing. | Requires more self-management; you may need to pay upfront and claim back, or manage billing directly. |
| Payment Process | You pay the excess directly to the repairer; insurer covers the remainder. | You may pay the full amount and claim back, or pay the increased excess to the insurer. |
Repair or Replace: What's the Best Option?
When damage occurs to your windscreen, the decision between repairing a chip and completely replacing the glass depends on several factors, primarily the size, type, and location of the damage. Insurers are usually keen to repair a windscreen rather than replace it, as repairs are significantly cheaper and more environmentally friendly. Small chips, typically those less than the size of a £2 coin and not in the driver's direct line of sight, are often repairable. This involves injecting a special resin into the chip, which then hardens, restoring the windscreen's integrity and optical clarity.
However, larger cracks, particularly those over a certain length (often 40mm) or those that spider across the glass, usually necessitate a full windscreen replacement. Damage that obstructs the driver's view or compromises the structural integrity of the windscreen also falls into the replacement category. Modern windscreens are integral to a car's structural safety, especially for airbags, so any compromise can be serious.
Your insurer will assess the damage, often through their approved repair network, to determine the most appropriate course of action. As stated, they can pay to repair or replace the windscreen or windows, or pay you an amount equal to the loss of or damage to the windscreen or windows, less any excess that may apply. This means the final decision on repair versus replacement often lies with the insurer's assessment, guided by industry standards for safety and repair viability.
The Claim Process for Windscreen Damage
Making a claim for windscreen damage is typically a straightforward process, designed to get your vehicle repaired swiftly and safely. Here's a general outline of the steps involved:
- Assess the Damage: First, determine the extent of the damage. Is it a small chip or a large crack? Is it in your direct line of sight?
- Contact Your Insurer Promptly: As soon as you notice the damage, contact your car insurance provider. Most insurers have dedicated lines for glass claims, often available 24/7. This prompt reporting is crucial.
- Provide Details: Be prepared to provide details of the damage, how it occurred, and your policy number. The insurer may ask for photos or arrange for an assessment.
- Follow Guidance on Repairers: Your insurer will advise you on using their approved repair network. They will typically arrange for the repairer to contact you directly to schedule the work. Remember the implications if you choose not to use an approved repairer.
- Understand Your Excess: Confirm the exact excess amount applicable to your windscreen claim. This is the amount you will pay directly to the repairer when the work is completed.
- Arrange the Repair/Replacement: Once confirmed, the approved repairer will carry out the necessary work, either repairing the chip or replacing the entire windscreen. They will usually handle the direct billing with your insurer for the remaining cost.
- Inspect the Work: Before signing off, thoroughly inspect the repair or replacement to ensure it meets your expectations and is of high quality.
Beyond the Windscreen: Damage from Broken Glass
It's a common concern that if a windscreen shatters or cracks significantly, fragments of glass could cause further damage to the vehicle's interior or exterior. Your insurance policy typically accounts for this. Specifically, if there are any scratches to the bodywork of your car as a result of broken glass, this is also covered under your policy's windscreen section. This comprehensive approach ensures that all direct consequences of the windscreen damage are addressed, preventing you from having to make a separate claim for what is essentially related damage.
When reporting your windscreen damage, make sure to mention any secondary damage, such as scratches to the bonnet, roof, or interior trim caused by the glass. This ensures that the repairer can assess all necessary work and that your insurer covers the full scope of the incident, leaving your vehicle in its pre-damaged condition as much as possible.
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: Do I always need to make a claim for windscreen damage?
A: Not necessarily. If the cost of repairing the damage is less than your policy's windscreen excess, or if you prefer to avoid involving your insurer for minor issues, you might choose to pay for the repair out-of-pocket. Always compare the repair cost with your excess.
Q: Can I choose any repairer for my windscreen?
A: While you can technically choose any repairer, your insurer will strongly prefer you use their network of approved repairers. If you choose not to, your insurer may not pay for the repair, or they may increase your compulsory excess by a significant amount, such as £100, as demonstrated in some policies.
Q: What if the broken glass scratches my car's paintwork?
A: Yes, this type of secondary damage is typically covered. Your policy usually states that if there are any scratches to the bodywork of your car as a result of broken glass, these repairs are included under your windscreen cover.
Q: What is an excess and how does it apply to windscreen claims?
A: An excess is the fixed amount you pay towards a claim. For windscreen claims, an excess will apply, which may be a specific amount for glass damage. This amount can increase if you opt not to use your insurer's approved repair network.
Q: Will my insurer pay for just a repair, or only a full replacement?
A: Your insurer offers both options: to pay to repair or replace the windscreen or windows. The decision between repair and replacement depends on the severity, size, and location of the damage, as assessed by the repairer and approved by your insurer.
Conclusion
Dealing with windscreen damage can be an unexpected hassle, but understanding your insurance policy and the claims process can make it significantly less stressful. By being aware of your excess, the importance of using approved repairers, and the comprehensive nature of your cover – including secondary damage from broken glass – you can navigate the situation with confidence. Always contact your insurer promptly to discuss your options and ensure your vehicle receives the necessary attention, getting you back on the road safely and efficiently.
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