Car Insurance Guide

Does car insurance cover windscreen & glass damage?

Written by Chloe Adams Managing Editor Reviewed by Nomsa Dlamini RE5 qualified · 12 years in short-term insurance Updated 26 July 2026 Our editorial standards →

Does car insurance cover windscreen damage?

Comprehensive car insurance usually covers windscreen and glass damage, often with its own, lower excess than a normal claim. Some policies include glass cover as standard; others offer it as an add-on. Third-party options generally do not cover your own windscreen. Repairing a small chip early can prevent a full - and more expensive - windscreen replacement.

Key takeaways

  • Comprehensive cover usually includes windscreen and glass damage.
  • Glass claims often carry a lower, separate windscreen excess.
  • Some policies include glass cover; others add it for an extra amount.
  • Third-party cover does not pay for your own windscreen.
  • Fixing a small chip early can avoid a full replacement.

How windscreen cover works

Under comprehensive cover, a cracked or shattered windscreen is usually covered. Many insurers apply a reduced windscreen excess that's lower than a normal claim excess, and repairing a chip is often cheaper (or excess-free) compared with a full replacement.

Is glass cover included or extra?

Some comprehensive policies include windscreen and glass cover as standard; others offer it as an optional add-on. Check your schedule for the glass excess and whether side windows and sunroofs are included.

Chip vs full replacement

A small chip can often be repaired quickly and cheaply before it spreads. Left too long, it can crack across the windscreen and require a full replacement, which costs more. Report and fix chips early.

Frequently asked questions

Is a cracked windscreen covered by insurance?
Comprehensive car insurance usually covers windscreen and glass damage, often with a lower windscreen excess. Third-party cover does not. Check whether glass cover is included as standard or as an add-on on your policy.
Does claiming for a windscreen affect my no-claim bonus?
Many insurers treat windscreen and glass claims separately, so they often don't affect your no-claim bonus the way a normal claim would. Confirm this with your insurer before you claim.

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