What is a Comprehensive Glass Policy?
A comprehensive glass policy is an insurance policy that covers different kinds of glass products that can be broken or damaged. Comprehensive glass policies cover a wider range of manufactured glass products that standard policies, which usually only cover plate glass. It also provides coverage whether the glass was damaged or destroyed accidentally or deliberately. It can also cover decorative glass signs and windows, as well as doors and windows.
KEY TAKEAWAYS
- A comprehensive policy on glass covers more products than a standard one, which typically covers only plate glass.
- The comprehensive policy covers glass damage whether it was accidental or intentional.
- This policy applies to windows, doors and decorative glass displays as well as signs.
- Although windshield coverage is standard with auto insurance, adding comprehensive glass can help you save money on out-of-pocket expenses for headlamps or door glass damage.
Comprehensive Glass Policy is required
Many people and businesses underestimate the cost of replacing damaged or broken glass doors and windows. Contrary to other types of building repairs that can be delayed until later, the cost of repairing windows that separate the outside from the interior of a building requires immediate attention.
Many windows are custom-cut to fit specific spaces and cannot be purchased at your local store. Display cases, colored or curved glass, and other items that require special manufacturing are some of the items that can be ordered. Specializations can increase the cost of replacing broken glass.
Comprehensive glass policies protect both accidental and intentional damage to or breaks in glass. A glass door might shatter if a heavy object accidentally bumps against it. Or a glass display glass window could break if a robber deliberately smashes into it to gain access to the contents. The policy covers both the replacement costs and the cost of repair. A comprehensive policy will include a variety of glass types, not just the plate glass covered in the typical standard property insurance policy.
Like other types of insurance policies, the policyholder must identify which pieces of glass will be covered by the policy. For example, the policyholder may want to only cover display cases and windows that face outside, but not lamps or signs. Businesses that lease space might be asked to pay a portion of the comprehensive glass policy cost with the building owner.
Most insurance policies do not automatically cover every peril, though comprehensive glass policies come close. You may be able to exclude certain causes of damage such as intentional damage caused by the policyholder.
Real World Example
Most comprehensive auto insurance policies also include coverage for auto windshield glass replacement. Insurers consider windshield replacement or repair necessary for vehicle operation and there is no deductible. Drivers without comprehensive coverage may have to pay a deductible along with their premium. In some cases, glass can be repaired rather than being replaced.
Insurers consider windshield damage normal and thus anticipate it. However, coverage for damage to other types of auto glass might not be available. Items like headlamps and door window glass and the rear window will probably be subject to the full policy deductible amount. A comprehensive auto insurance policy that includes full glass coverage will typically avoid any out-of-pocket costs for damage.