Has hail or storms damaged your home? Find out if insurance will cover home window replacement costs.
As a new homeowner in Oklahoma City, you’re likely navigating the ins and outs of homeowners insurance especially when it comes to filing a claim. If you have one or more damaged windows, you may be wondering if your homeowner’s insurance will cover replacement costs. To help, we’ve created this online guide and dive into the key factors surrounding home window replacement, addressing your concerns about coverage, the importance of quality replacement windows, and how to choose the right window contractor.
Step 1: Understanding Homeowners Insurance Coverage
What Does Homeowners Insurance Typically Cover?
Homeowners insurance typically covers damages caused by specific perils. A covered “peril” is often a situation that is outside of your control that causes damage to your home. Examples include fire, theft, and natural disasters like hail storms and tornadoes. However, coverage for window replacement can vary depending on the circumstances.
Will Homeowners Insurance Cover Home Window Replacement?
Unfortunately, when it comes to home insurance coverage for window replacement, there isn’t a clear-cut answer. That’s because it depends on your specific policy and the cause of the window damage.
Some policies may cover home window replacement if the damage is a result of a covered peril, while others may not provide coverage for certain types of damage, such as normal wear and tear.
The type of homeowners insurance policy you have can also impact coverage amounts. For example, if you have an actual cash value or ACV policy, insurance is only going to pay the claim value minus depreciation. Often this is significantly less than replacement costs.
Step 2: Assess Window Damage
Identifying Covered Perils
Before assuming your insurance will cover the replacement, ascertain the cause of the window damage. Commonly covered perils include storms, accidents, or vandalism. Normal wear and tear or pre-existing issues may not be covered.
Documenting the Damage
If your windows are damaged, document the extent of the damage with photographs. This visual evidence will be crucial when filing an insurance claim. Make sure to keep all receipts if you have to buy any supplies (like a tarp) to temporarily cover the window.
Step 3: File an Insurance Claim
Prompt Reporting
In the event of window damage, it’s essential to notify your insurance company promptly. Delaying the reporting process could affect the outcome of your claim.
Providing Necessary Information
When filing a claim, be prepared to provide detailed information about the damage, including the cause, the number of affected windows, and any repair estimates you may have received.
Step 4: Considering Replacement Windows
Importance of Quality Replacement Windows
Even if your insurance covers home window replacement, it’s crucial to invest in quality replacement windows. Energy-efficient windows not only enhance your home’s aesthetics but can also lead to long-term savings on energy bills.
Choosing the Right Material
Selecting the right window material is vital. Options include vinyl, wood, aluminum, and fiberglass, each with its own set of advantages. Consider factors like durability, maintenance, and energy efficiency when making your decision.
Step 5: Select a Window Contractor
Researching Window Contractors
Take the time to research local window contractors. Look for reviews, check credentials, and ask for recommendations from friends or neighbors.
Obtaining Multiple Quotes
Before making a decision, obtain quotes from multiple contractors. This step ensures you get a fair estimate and allows you to compare services and warranties offered by each contractor.
Having New Home Windows Installed
Once you have gone through steps 1-5, the final action you’ll have to take to replace damaged home windows is to schedule the installation. Depending on how many windows need to be replaced, this can typically be done in just one day!
Key Takeaways About Home Window Replacement Through Insurance
While homeowners insurance may cover home window replacement under specific circumstances, understanding the details of your policy and ensuring timely reporting is critical. Regardless of coverage, Investing in quality replacement windows and choosing a reputable window contractor can contribute to the longevity and efficiency of your home!
Have questions or need more information? Give our team of experts a call at 405-895-9972 or schedule a free home assessment using our online scheduling form.
