While we all strive to keep our homes safe and free from damage, accidents do occur. Severe weather, various types of storm cells, and even a stray branch or baseball have the potential to crack, shatter, or completely break the windows. In order to quickly repair the damage and handle it in an affordable manner, it may become necessary to file a homeowners insurance claim for damaged windows. In this guide, you will learn a little about the process.
- Documentation
The first step to filing a claim with your homeowners insurance happens before you make contact with the company. You must document the damaged windows. You will need to take pictures from the interior perspective of your home and the exterior perspective. Also, you should write down what happened, where it happened, and any other relevant information pertaining from the damage. Once you are finished, cover up the broken window with boards to secure your home.
- Your Coverage
You should determine what type of homeowners insurance that you have and what it covers. Most will cover damage from wind, fires, hail, and lightning strikes. Unfortunately, not all natural disasters may be covered. For example, not all homeowner’s insurance companies cover damage from an earthquake. The good news is, you can usually purchase these policies in addition to your standard insurance. Once you have determined that the event is covered in your policy, it is time to move on to the next step.
- File a Claim
In most instances, filing a claim for broken windows is as simple as going to the website of your homeowner’s insurance company and clicking on a button and walking through the outlined steps. If you choose to, you may call the company direct. Just remember, have your policy number, the summary of the damages, and any pictures that you took on hand.
- Pay Your Deductible
Once you file a claim, you will be responsible for paying the deductible on your policy. If your deductible is $500 – for example – you will need to pay this when you file your claim. Once the insurance company approves your claim, they will pay the remaining outstanding balance for your replacement windows. Then, an insurance adjustor will be sent out to meet with you.
- Hiring a Contractor for Replacement Windows
The next step to filing a claim is hiring a contractor who specializes in replacement windows. In most instances, your insurance company will send the contractor half of the costs so that they may initiate the repairs. Once the contractor finishes the job, the insurance company will send the remaining amount due to the professional.
Contact Us Today
If you are in need of replacement windows while filing an insurance claim, we here at 316 Direct Wholesale encourage you to contact us. Not only do we specialize in glass replacement, we also specialize in all hardware and associated maintenance.
We have a large variety of in-stock replacement windows, offered at the most competitive prices. We look forward to hearing from you! Call us now at: 316-201-9436