Broken windows can happen when you least expect them. In Boca Raton, strong winds, heavy rain, hurricanes, and flying debris can easily crack or shatter glass. Even a simple accident at home can lead to damage. When this happens, most homeowners ask the same question: Will my insurance pay for it?
The answer depends on your policy, the cause of the damage, and your deductible. In this guide, we will clearly explain how insurance works, when it usually covers glass damage, and what you should know before filing a claim for glass replacement in Boca Raton.
How Home Insurance Covers Glass Damage
Home insurance is designed to protect your home from sudden and unexpected events. In most cases, windows and glass doors are considered part of the home’s structure. This means they may be covered under your main dwelling protection.
However, coverage depends on what caused the damage. Insurance companies typically cover sudden events like storms or vandalism. They usually do not cover problems that develop slowly over time.
There are two common types of policies:
Named-peril policies cover only the risks listed in your policy documents.
Open-peril policies cover most risks unless they are specifically excluded.
Many homeowners in Boca Raton choose broader coverage because of hurricane risks.
Common Causes of Glass Damage in Boca Raton
Because Boca Raton is located in South Florida, weather plays a major role in glass damage.
Storm and Hurricane Damage
Strong winds during tropical storms or hurricanes can send debris into windows. If your window breaks during a covered storm event, insurance often pays for repairs or replacement. However, hurricane deductibles are usually higher than standard deductibles.
Accidental Breakage
Accidents can happen at home. A ball may hit a window, or furniture may bump into a sliding glass door. Some policies include accidental glass breakage, while others require an optional add-on.
Vandalism or Break-Ins
If someone breaks your window during a burglary or vandalism incident, your insurance will usually cover the damage. You may need to file a police report before submitting your claim.
Wear and Tear
Damage caused by aging, poor upkeep, or old seals is usually not covered. Insurance companies consider this normal maintenance, not a sudden event.
What Part of Your Policy Pays for Glass?
Glass damage may fall under different sections of your policy.
Dwelling coverage usually pays for broken windows and doors that are part of your home’s structure.
Other structures coverage may apply if the damaged glass is in a detached garage or guest house.
Personal property coverage may apply if the glass is part of furniture or décor inside your home.
Reviewing your policy details helps you understand exactly what is included.
Hurricane Deductibles in Boca Raton
Florida policies often include a separate hurricane deductible. Unlike regular deductibles, this amount is usually based on a percentage of your home’s insured value.
For example, if your home is insured for $300,000 and you have a 2% hurricane deductible, you would pay $6,000 before insurance begins covering damage.
If the cost of glass replacement in Boca Raton is lower than your hurricane deductible, filing a claim may not make sense.
Impact Windows and Insurance Benefits
Many Boca Raton homes have impact-resistant windows. These windows are designed to handle strong winds and flying debris. Insurance companies often offer discounts for homes with impact glass because they reduce storm damage risk.
Even so, impact windows can still break in severe conditions. If the damage is caused by a covered event, your policy may still pay for replacement.
Some homeowners also choose special glass coverage endorsements. These may reduce or remove the deductible for broken glass claims.
When Glass Replacement Is Usually Not Covered
There are certain situations where insurance companies may deny a claim. These commonly include:
- Damage caused by lack of maintenance
- Old or worn-out window seals
- Improper installation
- Manufacturer defects
If the damage happened slowly over time rather than suddenly, insurance will likely not cover it.
How to File a Claim for Glass Damage
If your window breaks, follow these steps to help your claim process go smoothly:
- Take clear photos of the damage immediately
- Write down when and how it happened
- Contact your insurance company as soon as possible
- Do not begin major repairs before approval
- Keep all receipts and repair estimates
An adjuster may inspect the damage before approving payment.
Replacement Cost vs. Actual Cash Value
Your policy will state how payment is calculated. There are two main options.
Replacement cost coverage pays the full amount needed to replace the damaged glass at current prices.
Actual cash value coverage subtracts depreciation based on the age and condition of the window.
Replacement cost coverage usually results in less out-of-pocket expense, especially for newer impact windows.
Building Codes in Boca Raton
Local building rules may require upgraded materials during window replacement. Older windows may need to be replaced with impact-rated glass to meet current standards.
Some policies include ordinance or law coverage, which helps pay for these upgrades. Without this coverage, you may need to pay the difference yourself.
This is an important factor when planning glass replacement in Boca Raton.
Should You File a Claim for Minor Damage?
Not every crack or break requires a claim. If the repair cost is close to your deductible, paying out of pocket may be a better choice.
Frequent small claims can sometimes affect future premiums. Always compare the repair estimate to your deductible before making a decision.
Quick Overview of Coverage
Below is a simple table to help you understand when insurance typically covers glass damage.
| Cause of Damage | Usually Covered? | Notes |
| Hurricane or windstorm | Yes | Hurricane deductible may apply |
| Vandalism or break-in | Yes | Police reports are often required |
| Accidental breakage | Sometimes | Depends on policy or add-on |
| Wear and tear | No | Considered maintenance |
| Seal failure over time | No | Gradual damage is not covered |
Special Notes for Condo Owners
If you live in a condominium, coverage may be different. Some condo associations insure exterior windows under a master policy. Others require owners to insure their own glass.
It is important to review both your association agreement and personal policy to know who is responsible for repairs.
Final Thoughts
In many cases, home insurance does cover glass damage if it is caused by a sudden event like a storm or vandalism. However, coverage depends on your policy details, deductible, and the cause of the damage.
Wear and tear, aging, and neglect are usually not covered. Hurricane deductibles in Boca Raton can also affect whether filing a claim makes financial sense.
Before starting glass replacement in Boca Raton, carefully review your insurance documents, compare costs, and speak with your provider if you have questions. Understanding your coverage helps you make smart financial decisions and restore your home quickly.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
1. Does home insurance cover broken sliding glass doors in Boca Raton?
Yes, if the damage is caused by a covered event like a storm, vandalism, or sudden accident. However, normal wear and tear or gradual damage is usually not covered under standard homeowners insurance policies.
2. Will filing a glass claim increase my insurance premium?
It depends on your insurer and claim history. A single storm-related claim may not significantly affect your premium, but multiple small claims over time could lead to higher rates or policy changes.
3. Are hurricane-damaged windows covered differently than regularly damaged ones?
Yes, hurricane damage often falls under a separate hurricane deductible. This deductible is usually a percentage of your home’s insured value, which can make out-of-pocket costs higher than standard claims.
4. What if my impact window cracks but doesn’t fully shatter?
If the crack was caused by a covered event, your insurance may pay for repair or replacement. An adjuster will inspect the damage to determine if full replacement is necessary.
5. Should I repair the glass before contacting my insurance company?
You can make temporary repairs to prevent further damage, but avoid permanent repairs until your insurance company reviews the claim. Always document the damage clearly before making any major changes.
