What should I do in case of window damage in my home?
A broken window is very annoying: it does make it very easy for burglars to enter your home and it can also get very cold in the house. But unfortunately an accident can happen at any time, so a broken window can happen to you. That's why it's good to know how this works on the insurance front.
Is it possible to insure the windows of my house?
Glass is not covered by most insurers. However, it is often possible to insure glass damage to the home as an additional coverage or as an extension within the building insurance.
Can I purchase glass insurance as additional coverage?
It is possible to take out glass insurance as additional coverage or as an extension within your building insurance. With most insurers, glass is not covered by default. Most policy conditions state that there is only coverage for glass that is intended to let daylight in, such as a window or a door. There is no coverage for a broken aquarium or a broken mirror.
Keep in mind separate types of windows, such as stained glass. It varies per insurer whether there is coverage for this on the glass insurance. This is stated in the policy conditions.
What about when I have rental property?
In the lease, the landlord will state what he expects you to do in terms of insurance. In most cases, the landlord will include an amount in the rental price for insurance, but not always for glass as well. So check this carefully in your lease and take action if necessary.
If you do not live in a purchase house, but in a rental house, different conditions may apply. If your rental home has window damage, it is best to contact the landlord directly. In the rent, the landlord usually includes an amount for insurance. Check carefully in the rental contract whether window damage to the house is also covered. If it is not clear, check with the landlord to avoid confusion and extra costs.
What if I accidentally smash the neighbor's window?
Since you caused the damage, the neighbor can hold you liable for it. If you have liability insurance, you can claim for this damage.
What if the property is vacant or if I remodel?
If your home becomes vacant (for example, because you are moving), it may no longer be covered under the glass insurance policy. In practice, windows of unoccupied houses are smashed and destroyed more quickly than those of occupied houses. In many cases, the insurer will want to limit the claim burden and exclude damage in an unoccupied home.
Are you going to remodel? Of course you need to be extra careful, but check the policy conditions of your insurance. Because the risk of damage during remodeling is greater, some insurers have excluded it from coverage in order to reduce the cost of claims.
Always notify the insurer of such changes in the living situation in a timely manner so that you are aware of the consequences.
Never underinsured
Put together your own package
A wide range
We compare all insurers for you, saves time again
Help from our experts
Can't figure it out? Our experts are always ready to help you
We can be reached via chat, WhatsApp, phone or email
Questions? Contact us if you want to know more.
We are here Monday to Friday from 08:00 to 18:00.