Does Home Insurance Cover Window Replacement?

You wake up to a loud crack, head over to check it out and find a broken window—maybe the storm got wild, a baseball missed its mark or someone tried to break in. One of the first things you probably wonder is: Does my home insurance cover this?

It’s a fair question and the answer is... it depends.

Here’s a breakdown of when your homeowners insurance might help with window replacement and when you may be footing the bill yourself.

When Home Insurance Usually Covers Window Replacement?

Most standard home insurance policies will cover window damage as long as it’s caused by something your policy lists as a “covered peril.” That usually means things like:

• Storms or hail

• A tree branch or something else falling on it

• Fire or smoke

• Vandalism

• Theft or an attempted break-in

So, if a windstorm blows through and smashes your living room window, there’s a good chance your insurance has your back. The same goes if someone tries to break in and damages the glass or even if a fire breaks out and causes heat-related cracks.

Just keep in mind: you'll likely have to pay your deductible first and the policy will cover the rest up to your coverage limits.

When Home Insurance Does Not Cover Window Replacement?

Not all window damage is covered. Here are some common situations where your claim might be denied:

• Wear and tear or old ageInsurance doesn’t cover things that break down over time. So if your windows are simply old, drafty or starting to crack due to age, you’re responsible for repairs.

• Neglect or lack of maintenanceIf the insurer determines that the damage could’ve been prevented with regular upkeep, they may deny your claim.

• Accidents caused by youIf your kid throws a ball through your own window or you accidentally damage it during DIY repairs, you likely won’t be reimbursed—unless you have extra coverage like accidental damage protection (which isn’t standard).

What About Broken Windows in a Rental or Condo?

If you rent, the landlord’s insurance generally covers the structure, including windows. But you should still have renter’s insurance to cover your personal belongings.

If you own a condo, things get a bit trickier. You’ll want to check your condo association’s master policy. Some cover windows; others don’t—meaning you may need to insure them through your own condo policy.

A Few Tips Before Filing a Claim

1. Check your deductible: If the window repair costs less than your deductible, it’s not worth filing a claim.

2. Document the damage: Take photos and note the date and cause of the damage.

3. Call your insurance provider: Ask how your policy applies before moving forward with repairs.

Final Thoughts

While home insurance can definitely help with the cost of replacing broken windows, it won’t cover everything. Knowing what’s included in your policy and what’s not can save you from surprises down the line.

So if you’re not sure what your current policy says, take a few minutes to review it or call your insurance agent. A little clarity now can mean a lot of peace of mind later.