Windshield damage is often covered under comprehensive auto insurance, but coverage, deductibles and claim requirements depend on your policy. If your windshield is chipped or cracked and you have insurance coverage, this page explains what may be covered, what you might pay, how the claim works, and how Star Windshield can help.
We work with drivers across the Niagara Region including Niagara Falls, St. Catharines, Welland and surrounding communities and can assist with the claims process, including direct billing to many insurers where available.
Understanding Windshield Insurance Coverage
Windshield damage is usually covered under comprehensive coverage — the part of your policy that handles damage not caused by a collision, such as flying rocks, theft or vandalism. If you don’t carry comprehensive coverage, windshield damage may not be covered, so it’s worth confirming with your insurer.
Depending on your policy, coverage can include repairing minor chips and cracks or replacing the windshield when the damage is too severe to repair. Some policies waive the deductible for repairs, and some apply a deductible to replacements — this varies, so check your policy or ask your insurer what applies to glass.
Can I choose my own auto glass shop?
In most cases you can choose where your windshield is repaired or replaced, even if your insurer suggests a specific provider. If your insurer recommends a shop, you can let them know you’d like to use Star Windshield — we’ll work with your insurer directly. If you’re unsure about your options, confirm with your insurance company before booking.
Types of Windshield Damage Covered by Insurance
Comprehensive insurance coverage often encompasses various types of windshield damage, providing policyholders with valuable protection. Insurance may cover eligible chips and cracks — from small stone chips to longer cracks and star- or bull’s-eye-shaped breaks. Whether the damage can be repaired or needs a full replacement depends on its size, location, depth and how many areas are affected. Coverage terms vary by insurer and policy, so it’s worth confirming what yours includes.
Repair or replacement?
Small chips, about the size of a loonie or smaller, and shorter cracks can often be repaired, especially if caught early. Larger cracks, damage in the driver’s line of sight, or damage at the edge of the glass usually calls for replacement. The safest approach is to have the windshield assessed before deciding — we can tell you which option applies to your damage.
Understanding Windshield Claim Deductibles
Before filing a claim, check whether your policy has a deductible for glass damage. A deductible is the amount you pay before your insurance covers the rest. Some policies waive the deductible for chip and crack repairs, while replacements may still have one — so your out-of-pocket cost depends on your specific policy.
Deductible terms vary between insurers and policies, so it’s worth confirming yours before booking. If you’re not sure what applies to glass, we can help you check when you contact us.
Will a windshield claim affect my insurance premium?
This depends on your insurer, your policy and your claims history. A glass-only comprehensive claim is often treated differently from an at-fault collision claim, but it’s not guaranteed to have no effect. If premium impact is a concern, ask your insurer how a glass claim is treated before you file.
Insurance Claims Process
- Get started: Contact Star Windshield and tell us about the damage.
- Check your coverage: We’ll help you confirm what your policy covers and whether a deductible applies to glass.
- Assess the damage: We assess the windshield and recommend repair or replacement.
- Handle the claim: We assist with your insurance claim and, where available, bill your insurer directly.
- Book the service: We schedule your repair or replacement at a time that works for you.
- Complete the work: We repair or replace the glass and complete any required next steps. Many newer vehicles also need windshield-mounted cameras and sensors recalibrated after a replacement — we’ll flag this during the assessment if your vehicle requires it.
Insurers can differ in how they handle claims, so some steps may vary. We’ll guide you through the process so you don’t have to figure it out on your own.
What do I need to start a claim?
It helps to have a few things ready:
- Your insurance company and policy details
- Your vehicle’s year, make and model
- Your licence plate or VIN, if requested
- When and how the damage happened
- Photos of the damage, if your insurer asks for them
You don’t need all of this to contact us — we can help you gather what’s required.
Contact Us for Insurance Claims Assistance
Dealing with insurance claims doesn’t have to be stressful. Let Star Windshield take the burden off your shoulders. Contact us today at 647-509-2154 to get started with our Insurance Claims Assistance services. We can help you navigate the claims process, communicate with your insurer, and — where available — bill your insurance provider directly, so there’s less for you to handle.
