Question 1

Do I need impact-resistant windows to get a discount on my insurance?

Accepted Answer

Impact-resistant windows can sometimes qualify you for home insurance discounts, but this depends entirely on your specific insurance provider and policy — there's no universal rule in Ontario or Ottawa.

How Insurance Discounts Work

Unlike hurricane-prone regions in the U.S. (Florida, Texas, etc.) where impact-resistant windows are heavily incentivized or even required, Ontario insurers don't have standardized discount programs for impact glass. Some insurers do offer credits for upgraded wind

Question 2

What's the typical deductible for a window damage claim?

Accepted Answer

That's a question better suited for your home insurance provider rather than a window installer.

Deductibles vary significantly depending on your specific insurance policy, provider, and coverage type. There's no "typical" amount I could give you that would be accurate for your situation — deductibles commonly range anywhere from $500 to $2,500+ depending on your policy terms.

What I'd recommend doing is calling your insurance broker or provider directly and asking them specifically about wind

Question 3

Are there insurance requirements for basement bedroom egress windows?

Accepted Answer

Yes, basement bedroom egress windows must meet specific safety requirements that can affect your home insurance coverage. Insurance companies require basement bedrooms to have proper emergency exits to ensure occupant safety in case of fire or other emergencies.

Building Code Requirements for Egress Windows

Under the Ontario Building Code, any basement room used as a bedroom must have an egress window or door that meets minimum size requirements. The window opening must be at least 3.8 square

Question 4

Do I need to notify my insurance company that I replaced my windows?

Accepted Answer

Most homeowners don't need to notify their insurance company for standard window replacements, but it's worth checking your specific policy since some insurers appreciate being informed about home improvements.

Window replacements typically don't trigger insurance notification requirements because you're replacing existing windows with similar or better products in the same openings. Unlike major renovations or additions, window replacement doesn't change your home's footprint or significantly

Question 5

Does my home insurance cover window damage from the big storm we just had?

Accepted Answer

Most home insurance policies in Ontario do cover window damage from storms, but coverage depends on the specific cause and your policy details. You'll need to review your policy or contact your insurer to confirm your specific coverage.

Storm damage coverage typically includes windows broken by wind, hail, or debris during severe weather events. If the recent storm caused direct damage to your windows - such as hail cracking the glass, wind pressure breaking panes, or flying debris impact - thi

Question 6

My window seals failed - will my home insurance cover that?

Accepted Answer

Most standard home insurance policies don't cover failed window seals, as this is typically considered normal wear and tear rather than sudden damage from a covered peril like storms or accidents.

Window seal failure is a gradual process that happens over time as the sealant around insulated glass units breaks down, allowing moisture to enter between the panes and creating that foggy appearance. Insurance companies generally view this as a maintenance issue similar to a worn-out roof or aging f

Question 7

Someone tried to break in and damaged my window - how do I report that?

Accepted Answer

Contact Ottawa Police immediately if you haven't already - break-ins are serious crimes that need to be reported right away. Call 613-236-1222 for non-emergency or 911 if it just happened or you feel unsafe.

For the police report, you'll need to document the damage with photos and note any missing items. The police will give you an occurrence number that you'll need for insurance claims. If the break-in just happened, don't touch anything until police arrive as they may want to collect evidence

Question 8

What paperwork do I need to file a window damage insurance claim?

Accepted Answer

For window damage insurance claims, you'll typically need photos of the damage, proof of ownership, receipts for temporary repairs, and a detailed written estimate from a professional contractor. Most insurers require documentation within 30-60 days of discovering the damage.

Essential Documentation for Your Claim

Start by photographing all damaged windows from multiple angles, including close-ups of cracks, broken glass, or frame damage. Take wide shots showing the affected area and any inter

Question 9

Will getting new windows actually lower my home insurance premiums?

Accepted Answer

New windows typically don't directly lower your home insurance premiums, but they can contribute to discounts in specific situations and provide other valuable benefits that insurance companies recognize.

Most home insurance providers in Ontario don't offer specific discounts just for window replacement. However, new windows can qualify you for broader home improvement discounts if they're part of a larger renovation or if you're upgrading multiple building systems simultaneously. Some insurers

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