There’s no denying that a damaged windscreen is an irritation but if you’ve got comprehensive motor insurance, it’s really no big deal.
However, without insurance, a chip or crack in your vehicle’s windscreen can be costly – especially if the damage is left untreated. That’s because it can quickly escalate into a major problem which may then actually require a full windscreen replacement.
On the other hand, most comprehensive motor insurance policies include cover for damaged window glass and the problem can be sorted out quickly and easily. Many windscreen repairers offer a convenient 24/7 mobile service and will restore your windscreen to nearly new condition at a time and a place that suits you – plus there’s likely to be little or no cost to you depending on your insurer and your policy.
Each insurance company is different and it’s up to you which one you choose. Each offers comprehensive cover but the terms and conditions may vary when it comes to windscreen damage.
For example, Progressive offers free windscreen repair (eg chips and dents) with comprehensive cover but they don’t provide free windscreen replacement (the standard excess level would apply each time a replacement is required) whilst with AAMI comprehensive cover, there would be no excess on the first claim for repair or replacement of the windscreen or window glass (including sunroof) each year if it’s damaged by an insured event.
And if you’re comprehensively insured with RAC, you can make your claim online or give them a call and they will arrange for one of their approved glaziers to carry out the repairs. If the damage is repairable, your claim will be processed without an excess but if the damage is such that a full windscreen replacement is necessary, then an excess of around $100 may apply.
Standard excesses can sometimes mean that it is not cost-effective to lodge a claim for a windscreen repair, especially if the damage is minor.
Before you commit to a motor insurance policy, be sure to read the fine-print and make sure you are happy with the inclusions, exclusions and the terms and conditions. Not all comprehensive policies include windscreen cover, so check the optional extras and the costs involved to make sure you are getting the best bang for your buck.
If you do have a damaged windscreen, here’s how to claim:
- Get as much detail about the damage as possible before you contact your insurer. Make notes about how, where and when the incident happened, and take photographs if necessary.
- If criminal activity is suspected, you will need to report it to the police and get a case number.
- Contact your insurer and provide full details of the claim. Depending on your policy and your claim, they may need to appoint an assessor to inspect the damage or they may direct one of their authorised providers to proceed with the repairs once the claim has been lodged.
- Depending on your insurance company, you may be able to bypass them completely and go directly to the windscreen repair company – all you need is your policy number.
- Once you have the go-ahead from your insurer, you can either book your vehicle in for repairs or have the mobile service come to you.
Autoscreens has been approved by all major insurance companies for quality windscreen repairs and windscreen replacements in Perth, and their fast, efficient mobile service means your vehicle will be back on the road in no time at all (and with a lifetime warranty). Get in touch with Jason on 0400 200 086 or make a booking online at Autoscreens and put their 20 years of experience to the test.
Jason Squire started Autoscreens in 2010. With over 35 years of experience gained in both the UK and Australia, the company is well established as a leading provider of windscreen replacement and autoglass repairs in Perth.
His journey to becoming a certified repairer license holder status with DMIRS (and business repair license MRB3703) began many years ago. He was born and brought up in the UK – the country where his long career in the automotive industry began. In common with many of the world’s best tradespeople it all started with an apprenticeship. For Jason, this was in vehicle bodybuilding and a specialisation in vehicle conversions.
He followed that up with several additional professional qualifications, including a Grade A Vehicle Body Building Certificate from the Road Transport Industry, a GQA level 2 in NVQ Automotive Glazing and a Level 2 qualification in Joining Materials by Welding from the UK Engineer Training Authority.
During his studies, Jason was also a part-time volunteer in the Royals signals with the Reserve Territorial Army. Between 1991 and 1995, Jason completed his Phase One Signallers Course with the Royal Armoured Corps and was awarded a Certificate of Trade Proficiency as a Territorial Army Driver Electrician Class 3. Training exercises took him all over Europe. He also represented the Signals in Rugby.
From there, he joined the armed forces on a full-time basis with the Queens Royal Lancers and continued to impress with his leadership skills and willingness to broaden his skillset, during which he lived in Germany. In 1996, he graduated from the Queens Royal Lancer Leadership Academy where he was named best recruit. His time with the Queens Royal Lancers he qualified as Tank Driver, Crew Medic and Gunner.
In 1999, Jason left the armed forces to join RAC Auto Windscreens. His skillset enabled him to fast-track his career to base supervisor and lead technician working with premiere dealerships in Crewe, Cheshire.
He also continued to volunteer in a number of different areas, including as a first responder with the West Midlands Ambulance Service and a scout leader with the Scout Association.
He relocated to Australia in 2008 with his young family and spent his first two years down under as a head technician for a national windscreen company.
However, with all his experience, extensive qualifications and his abiding passion for the automotive industry, it was inevitable that he would start his own company and make his mark as an industry leader.
He started Autoscreens in 2010 and has grown the business into the leading windscreen repair and replacement company in Perth, servicing both domestic and commercial customers. Autoscreens has a certified Motor Vehicle Repairers Licence MRB3703 issued by the Department of Energy, Mines, Industry Regulation and Safety.