Does home insurance cover broken windows?

How does homeowners insurance cover broken windows?

If a window is broken as a result of a covered peril, here's how your homeowners policy may provide coverage:

• Dwelling coverage: May pay to repair or replace broken windows that are part of your home's structure, up to your coverage limit and minus your deductible.
• Other structures coverage: May pay to repair or replace windows from a standalone structure on your property, such as a detached garage or storage shed, up to your coverage limit and minus your deductible.
• Personal liability coverage: May pay to repair or replace your neighbor's window if you or someone in your household is liable for the damage.

Here are some common scenarios that cause broken windows and may be covered under homeowners insurance:

• Severe weather: Includes storms with damaging winds, tornadoes, hurricanes and hail.
• Theft and vandalism
• Fire
• Kids at play: Suppose a child in your neighborhood throws a baseball and accidentally breaks your window. Your neighbor's homeowners insurance may pay to repair or replace the window.

When does homeowners insurance not cover broken windows?

Typically, homeowners insurance won't pay for window damage that results from general wear and tear, such as:

• Rotted windows: Damage due to negligence typically isn't covered
• Broken window seals: When window seals break over time due to wear and tear, you're responsible for the cost of repairs

Does a home warranty cover broken windows?

A home warranty policy typically won't cover structural features like windows and doors. Your warranty may cover the wear and tear of household appliances, but you may have to pay out of pocket for window damage that isn't covered by your homeowners insurance.

Filing a claim for window damage

Take photos and if you suspect any potential damage caused by a covered peril, have a qualified professional inspect your windows. Get a repair estimate to determine if the costs may exceed your deductible.

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