Does Replacing a Windshield Affect Your No Claim Bonus?

Imagine this: you are driving along, and suddenly, a stone hits your windshield, leaving a big crack. Your windshield is cracked; should you use your insurance and risk losing your No Claim Bonus (NCB), or pay from your pocket?

This is a common dilemma for many car owners. With car windshield insurance, understanding the impact of a replacement on NCB is crucial to deciding whether to file a claim or pay out of pocket.

Here is what you need to know before deciding.

How Windshield Replacement Affects NCB?

In most cases, repairing or replacing your windshield will NOT impact your No Claim Bonus. This is because many insurance policies treat windshield damage as a separate category from other own damage claims. With this, you can get your glass repaired or replaced without losing the NCB you have earned over time.

But is windshield damage included in your car insurance? Let us find out below.

Situations When Your Car Insurance Covers Windshield Damage

Your car’s windshield can get damaged in many unexpected ways, and the good news is that many insurance partners offer coverage. For example:

• If your windshield breaks in an accident involving another vehicle or third-party property, the damage is usually covered.
• Nature can also play a part. Your policy will usually handle situations like a tree branch falling on your parked car or a sudden hailstorm damaging your windshield.
• If an animal runs into your car or a stray ball smashes your windshield, that too falls under covered damage.

How to Make a Smart Claim Decision?

• Check the Repair Cost: If the windshield replacement cost is less than or close to your policy deductible, paying out of pocket might be more economical.
• Evaluate Your NCB Status: Are you close to earning a higher No Claim Bonus (e.g., moving from 35% to 50%)? If yes, avoiding a claim could save you more in the long run.
• Consider Your Claim History: If this is your only claim for the year, the impact may be minimal. But frequent claims, even for minor damages, could lead to a higher premium later.
• Think Long-Term: Sometimes, skipping a small claim helps maintain a clean record and greater savings for future renewals. So, be aware of this.
• Seek Expert Advice: At AIS Windshield Experts, we follow a ‘Windshield Repair First’ approach and only recommend replacement when absolutely necessary. We have partnered with leading insurers, which allows us to offer personalised guidance based on your policy terms and NCB status.

Important Tips for Claiming Windshield Replacement Through Insurance

So, if your car’s windshield is damaged and you are planning to file an insurance claim, here are a few things you should keep in mind to make the process smooth and stress-free:

• Check Your Policy First: Make sure your comprehensive car insurance actually covers windshield damage. Some policies may include deductibles or have specific terms for glass repair.
• Do Not Delay the Claim: As soon as the damage happens, file your claim. Waiting too long might lead to claim rejection, even if your policy covers it.
• Keep All Documents Ready: Click clear photos of the damaged windshield and collect any related bills. If needed, an FIR copy may also be required. Submitting the right documents helps your claim get approved faster.
• Pick an Authorised Repair Centre: Always choose a workshop approved by your insurer. AIS Windshield Experts, for instance, has partnered with leading insurance partners and offers cashless claims.

Conclusion

Car glass replacement does not always affect your No Claim Bonus, especially if you have a comprehensive policy and choose the right repair partner. It is always best to check your policy details and understand what is covered.

If you are looking for a hassle-free and quick windshield replacement, AIS Windshield Experts is here to help. We finish the job in just 2–4 hours using only genuine and top-quality products. Our team ensures smooth service and even handles the paperwork for insurance claims.