Lots of homeowners have this question in mind, does homeowners insurance cover broken windows? Answer could be yes, you are covered but it depends. How the windows are damaged and what type of insurance is covering you. There are two primary home insurance policies (or a hybrid one) that can include or exclude window damage insurance coverage:

1. Open Perils Coverage:

 As the name implies, “open perils” or similar terms such as “all perils,” “all risk,” or “special perils,” coverage means that damage or loss from all potential perils may be covered unless specifically excluded in the insurance policy. Open-peril is the most comprehensive coverage homeowners can acquire, which is usually more costly.

2. Named Perils: 

A named perils insurance policy is a home insurance policy covering only losses incurred to a property from hazards or events named on the policy.Named-peril policies only cover risks explicitly outlined within the contract. In this case, you might have to pay out of pocket for certain damages to your windows.

Coverage for Window Screens

Window screens are generally considered part of your home’s exterior, and coverage for their repair or replacement can be somewhat ambiguous. But this is not always the case, in most of the devastating situations, windows damaged is the part of insurance coverage:

1. Damage from Covered Perils:

 If your window screens are damaged due to a covered peril, such as a severe storm or vandalism, your homeowner’s insurance may cover the cost of replacement. For example, if an act of theft, a fire or a hailstorm causes significant damage. In this case your house is covered, windows are included. Your insurance might help cover the repair costs, depending on the extent of the damage and your deductible. Unfortunately, not all the weather events are covered under the home insurance policy. If a roof gets old and weathered or windows get rotted, your insurance company will not offer repair or replacement.

2. Wear and Tear or Maintenance Issues:

Most homeowner insurance policies do not cover damage resulting from normal wear and tear, aging, or lack of maintenance. If your window screens are damaged due to deterioration over time or improper upkeep, you will likely need to cover the replacement costs out of pocket. Insurance is not intended to address routine maintenance issues.

3. Deductibles and Limits: 

Even if your window screen damage falls under a covered peril, you’ll need to consider your policy’s deductible. You are responsible for paying this amount before insurance coverage kicks in. Additionally, policies often have limits on coverage for certain types of damage, so if your window screens are part of a larger claim, they may only be partially covered.

Conclusion

In summary, homeowner insurance might cover window screen replacement if the damage results from a covered peril, but it is unlikely to cover issues related to wear and tear or maintenance. It’s important to be familiar with the terms of your policy and consult with your insurance provider to get a clear understanding of your coverage. Regular maintenance and prompt repairs can help prevent damage and keep your home in good condition, reducing the need for insurance claims.