Windscreen repair and insurance excess

[Shallysally]

My DD’s windscreen has a chip in it. She’s a new driver so her excess is extortionate.

If I go through the insurance, will it be a smaller excess for a windscreen repair please? I’ve checked the policy and it just sets out one excess table.

I’m debating whether to just book it in at Halfords tomorrow as can’t speak with anyone at the insurance company till Monday and don’t want to risk the chip becoming a crack.

Usually (with a lot of insurers)no XS to pay if windscreen chip can be repaired regardless of who driving (but check your policy). Would have thought the young driver additional XS is in relation to AD claims only, not glass claims

Agree with @Augustbabyy

Check the policy. Sometimes there is no excess for windscreen repairs and sometimes it a small excess, but it won't be the same as an accident excess.

Ah thanks both! I did think it would be excessive to charge the standard excess amount.

I’ll have a look again at the policy document, there might be some small print hopefully.

Yeah usually £50 or something for glass if it can't be repaired, although I know a lot of insurers are having to put this up now because of how high-tech & expensive windscreens can be these days with heating, built in computer systems, sensors etc!

Definitely check your policy. I wouldn’t worry about waiting until Monday, it’s highly unlikely that the crack will become worse. Just give them a call (do check their times, so many still operate at weekends).

A good policy will usually mean that you can get the window repaired at a “reduced”cost (compared to getting it repaired with no policy). Plus, a good policy will mean that a window claim doesn’t affect your no-claims bonus.

It’s also worth checking out sites such as Auto-Glass. If you follow their online process, it can often determine what type of repair you need. Depending on where the crack is, and how big it is, it can often be filled and will pass MOT tests etc.

Thanks @Furries. I’ve gone through the claim line and got through to Auto glass. It’ll be either £25 for repair or £120 if replacement windscreen is needed. So not too painful!

If its replaced you'll have to declare that every time you get car insurance for the next 5yrs