Comprehensive Car Insurance Explained: Windscreen Coverage

What Is Windscreen Cover in Car Insurance?

Windscreen cover is an important part of many car insurance policies in the UK. It often helps pay to fix or replace a damaged windscreen, windows, and sunroofs. However, not every insurance company includes windscreen cover in their basic plans. Some may offer it as an extra option.

Windscreen repair or replacement can be really expensive, especially without insurance. A small crack may cost you between £50 and £100 to fix. However, if you need a full windscreen replacement, it might cost more than £500. It’s very important to understand your insurance details. This can help you avoid unexpected costs.

Does Comprehensive Cover Include Windscreen Protection?

Comprehensive car insurance often has windscreen cover. But, the specifics can vary by insurer. Some policies let you repair or replace your windscreen without losing your claims bonus. Others may treat it as an insurance claim.

Key Features of Windscreen Cover:

• Repair vs Replacement: Most insurance policies pay for both repairs and replacements. The excess amounts may differ between the two.
• Approved Repairers: A lot of policies require you to use approved repairers, like Autoglass, for coverage.
• Sunroofs and Panoramic Roofs: Coverage may not apply to sunroofs and panoramic roofs. Check your insurance policy for details.
• Excess Costs: The excess for windscreen claims is usually lower than for other claims. However, this can vary with different insurers.

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Common Limitations of Windscreen Cover

Not every comprehensive cover is identical. Some car insurance policies may miss some types of damage. They might also require you to pay more for complete windscreen protection. For example:

• Panoramic Roofs: A regular windscreen cover often doesn’t come with these.
• Unauthorised Repairers: Picking a repairer that your insurer didn’t approve may cost you more money.
• Multiple Claims: Making many claims for your windscreen could change your claims bonus with certain insurers.

What to Do If You Need Windscreen Repairs

If you need to fix or change your windscreen, here are some simple steps for an easy insurance claim:

1. Check Your Insurance Details: Look at your policy. Make sure you have windscreen cover and find out if there are any exclusions.
2. Contact Your Insurer: Tell your insurer about the damage. They will guide you with the next steps for your claim.
3. Choose an Approved Repairer: Select an authorised repair service like Autoglass. This can help you avoid extra costs.
4. Provide Required Information: Be ready to share your policy number, surname, and postcode. This will confirm your coverage.
5. Pay the Excess: You might have to pay an excess for the repair or replacement, depending on your policy.

Comparing Policies: What to Look For

When you pick a car insurance policy, it’s important to check the windscreen cover options from different insurance companies. Here are some key points to consider:

• Inclusions: Does the policy cover windscreen repair and replacement?
• Excess Costs: How much extra do you pay for windscreen claims compared to other claims?
• Impact on Claims Bonus: Will a claim for the windscreen affect your no-claims bonus?
• Repairer Requirements: Does the policy require you to use specific repairers, like Autoglass?
• Optional Extras: Can you include windscreen cover if it is not part of the basic policy?

Why Windscreen Cover Matters

Driving with a broken windscreen is dangerous and illegal in the UK. Cracks or chips can limit your view and make your car unsafe. A windscreen cover can help you get quick repairs or replacements. This way, you can feel safe while driving.

FAQs About Windscreen Cover in Car Insurance