Buying New Windows: Is It Covered by Homeowner’s Insurance?

Investing in replacement windows is a great way to improve your home’s aesthetic appeal and energy efficiency. But is it covered by your homeowner’s insurance? Homecraft® Inc. discusses when your insurance policy may pay for the replacement units.

Replacing a Damaged Window

There’s a good chance that you’ll be dealing with a broken window at some point. Given how significant an investment window replacement can be, many homeowners consider filing a claim against their homeowner’s insurance policies to cover the project’s cost. Your policy may pay for your new window, but it will depend on how your current window was damaged.

Knowing Your Insurance Policy

To better understand this, you have to learn about what is written in your insurance policy. There are two types of policies when it comes to homeowner’s insurance: named-peril and open-peril. A named-peril policy covers losses by perils specifically listed in it. An open-peril policy, meanwhile, covers damage as a result of various risks to the insured property. Unless there are exclusions indicated in the policy, you may still likely be covered by this type of policy.

Your insurance will cover the cost of your new vinyl windows if your current windows were damaged because of severe weather such as a hailstorm or windstorm. However, if the window glass broke due to a wayward projectile like a baseball thrown by someone else or a ladder that you knocked over, your purchase may not be covered. This is common in named-peril policies since they don’t specifically cover accidents.

Does It Cover Damage Caused by Wear and Tear?

Expect homeowner’s insurance policies to exclude wear and tear. After all, it is your responsibility to take care of and maintain your windows in the first place. If you do ensure the upkeep of your investment, you’re more likely to be covered in case it is damaged because of a storm. However, damage stemming from the lack of maintenance is less likely to be covered. Get in touch with your insurer to learn more about the coverage of your policy.

Homecraft Inc. is your leading provider of high-quality vinyl and wood window installation services. Give us a call at (302) 798-0302 or fill out our contact form to request an estimate. We serve homeowners in Bear and Wilmington, DE.