A lot of auto insurance claims involve glass damage, most of which is related to windshields. While the cost of a cracked or chipped windshield may seem manageable, many drivers are unsure whether it’s worth filing a claim. The short answer is: it depends.
This guide explains how windshield claims are handled in Canada, how they impact your premium, and when filing a claim could backfire.
Does a Glass Claim Affect Your Insurance?
Yes, it can. But the impact depends on what kind of claim you file.
Minor repairs (such as fixing a chip or small crack) are often not treated as official claims by insurers, especially in Ontario and British Columbia. These repairs may not be recorded in your claims history and typically don’t involve a deductible. Insurers often prefer this approach because it helps them avoid larger payouts down the line.
Full windshield replacements, on the other hand, are usually recorded. While one claim may not raise your premium, multiple claims over time can lead to:
- Higher premiums
- Increased deductibles
- Glass coverage exclusions on future policies
These patterns vary by province and by provider, so it’s important to check your specific coverage details.
Does Windshield Repair Claim Increase Insurance?
Most of the time, no. A one-time windshield repair rarely causes a rate increase.
There are two reasons for this:
- Repairs are far cheaper than replacements, often costing between $80 and $150.
- Insurers have an incentive to keep costs down by encouraging quick repairs, sometimes even covering them without a deductible.
Many insurance companies, especially in Ontario, do not treat these small repairs as formal claims. However, if you file several comprehensive claims in a short period (even if they’re not your fault), you could lose your claims-free discount at renewal. This is not a rate increase per se, but it still raises your cost.
If you’re unsure whether a crack qualifies for repair or replacement, it helps to understand different types of windshield cracks and how insurers assess them.
Can I Claim Insurance for Windshield Replacement?
Yes, you can. But just because you can doesn’t mean you should.
You’ll want to compare the cost of replacement to your comprehensive deductible. If your deductible is $500 and the new windshield costs $450, filing a claim gives you no benefit.
Even if the replacement exceeds your deductible, keep in mind that:
- The claim will be recorded
- You may lose your claims-free discount
- Too many glass claims may prompt insurers to restrict or remove coverage
Some provinces, like Alberta, allow you to purchase separate glass-only policies like AMI Autoglass Insurance. These products let you file glass claims without affecting your main auto policy.
Is Windshield Covered in Insurance?
Yes, but only under comprehensive coverage. This is an optional part of most auto insurance policies, but it’s commonly included by default.
Comprehensive coverage pays for non-collision damage to your vehicle, including:
- Flying debris
- Weather-related incidents
- Vandalism
- Theft
If you don’t have comprehensive insurance, any glass repair or replacement will come out of your own pocket. In some provinces, coverage terms may be influenced by how often you file. That’s why understanding how to handle chipped or cracked windshields properly can reduce the need for full replacements and help protect your policy status.
What You Need to Know About Windshield Replacement Insurance
Here’s a quick province-by-province overview:
- Ontario: Repairs are not usually recorded as claims. Replacements are. Too many claims may lead to glass coverage being excluded through OPCF 13D.
- Alberta: Frequent claims can result in higher deductibles or coverage restrictions. Separate glass-only policies are available.
- British Columbia: Through ICBC, repairs are free and have no impact on insurance. Replacements carry a deductible and are recorded.
- Quebec: Private insurers handle property damage claims. Multiple claims may raise your rate. Some insurers offer accident forgiveness, depending on your policy.
Always review your policy documents or call your provider for details specific to your plan.
Should You File a Claim for Windshield Replacement?
Consider these questions before deciding:
- Is the cost of the replacement higher than your deductible? If not, filing doesn’t make sense.
- Have you filed other claims recently? A pattern of claims could label you as high risk.
- Will you lose your claims-free discount? Many insurers remove this after any comprehensive claim.
- Could your coverage be affected in the future? Repeated glass claims can lead to exclusion endorsements in some provinces.
FAQs About Windshield Claims and Insurance
- Is a windshield replacement considered a claim?
Yes. Insurers almost always record a replacement as part of your claims history, which could impact future premiums. - Will my insurance go up if I claim for a windshield?
It’s unlikely after just one claim. But multiple claims over time, even for minor glass damage, may raise your rate or reduce your coverage. - How much does insurance go up after windshield replacement?
There’s no fixed number. In many cases, premiums stay the same after a first claim, but repeated incidents can result in higher costs or lost discounts.
Final Thoughts
Filing a windshield claim can be the right move in some situations, but it’s not always the most cost-effective choice. For small cracks or chips, it’s often better to pay out-of-pocket, especially if your deductible is high or if you want to protect your claims history.
Before you decide, review your deductible, consider the potential long-term costs, and weigh the safety implications. A damaged windshield can compromise your visibility and structural protection, so don’t put off necessary repairs.
If you’re unsure how your crack will be classified or what repair options are available, a quick consultation can help you decide. For professional advice or an accurate cost estimate, you can request a quote here.
