For a long time, glass cover was one of those things drivers didn’t think twice about. Windscreen cracked? Call the insurer, pay a small excess, job done.

These days, it’s not quite that simple.

More and more drivers are discovering that glass cover isn’t always included as standard anymore, or that it comes with more limits and conditions than they expected. Often, it’s only noticed when something actually goes wrong.

So what’s changed? And what does it mean for you if you need a windscreen or window replacement?

Glass cover used to be straightforward

Historically, windscreens were relatively simple to replace.

There were no cameras to recalibrate, fewer specialist tools were needed, and replacement costs were fairly predictable. Because of that, insurers could offer glass cover cheaply and confidently.

A chipped or cracked windscreen was usually treated as a minor claim, often with:

• A low excess
• No impact on no-claims discount
• Quick approval

That model worked well — for a while.

Modern vehicles have changed the game

The biggest reason glass cover is changing is vehicle technology.

Today’s cars are far more advanced than they were even a decade ago. Windscreens and windows are no longer just pieces of glass; they’re part of the vehicle’s safety and driver assistance systems.

Modern glass replacement can involve:

• Forward-facing cameras
• Advanced driver assistance systems (ADAS)
• Larger, more complex glass panels
• Calibration after fitting

All of this adds cost, time and specialist labour — and insurers have had to adapt.

Windscreen claims are costing insurers more

From an insurer’s point of view, glass claims are no longer “small” claims.

A replacement that once cost a few hundred pounds can now cost significantly more, especially on newer vehicles or premium models. Calibration alone can add a noticeable amount to the bill.

As a result, insurers are seeing:

• Higher average glass claim costs
• Increased claim volumes
• More variation between vehicle types

Rather than absorbing those costs, many insurers have chosen to restructure glass cover, or remove it from standard policies altogether.

How glass cover is changing in real terms

For drivers, these changes often show up in a few key ways:

• Glass cover offered as an optional extra
• Higher excesses for glass claims
• Limits on claim value
• Calibration not fully covered
• Side windows treated differently to windscreens

It’s not that glass cover has disappeared entirely — it’s just no longer guaranteed.

Why some policies exclude glass cover completely

In some cases, insurers have removed glass cover to keep headline premiums lower.

From a marketing perspective, this makes sense. Many drivers compare policies based on price alone, and removing extras helps insurers stay competitive.

The downside is that drivers may not realise what’s missing until they need it.

Glass cover is often listed deep in the policy wording, rather than highlighted upfront, so it’s easy to assume it’s included when it isn’t.

The rise of excesses and caps

Even when glass cover is included, it often comes with stricter conditions.

Common changes include:

• Higher fixed excesses
• Percentage-based excesses
• Maximum claim values
• Separate excesses for calibration

This can leave drivers paying more out of pocket than expected, particularly if the vehicle requires specialist work.

Side windows are often treated differently

Another area that catches people out is side window replacement.

Some policies only cover windscreens under glass cover, treating side and rear windows as standard claims instead. This can mean:

• A higher excess
• Impact on no-claims discount
• Longer approval times

It’s an important distinction, especially given that side windows usually can’t be repaired and need full replacement.

Why insurers are being more cautious

From the insurer’s side, glass claims have become harder to standardise.

The cost of replacing glass now depends heavily on:

• Vehicle make and model
• Sensor and camera setup
• Calibration requirements
• Availability of suitable glass

Two claims that look identical on paper can end up costing very different amounts. That unpredictability is a big reason insurers are tightening terms.

What drivers can do to avoid surprises

While insurance policies are changing, there are a few practical steps drivers can take.

It’s worth checking:

• Whether glass cover is included at all
• What the excess is for glass claims
• Whether ADAS calibration is covered
• If side windows are included

Doing this before you need a repair can save a lot of frustration later on.

When paying privately makes sense

In some cases, drivers choose to pay privately rather than claim on insurance.

This can make sense if:

• The excess is high
• The claim limit is low
• You want to avoid potential policy complications
• The replacement cost is similar to the excess

An upfront quote can help you weigh up your options without committing either way.

A calmer way to approach glass damage

The key thing to remember is that glass cover isn’t disappearing — it’s just evolving alongside vehicle technology.

Understanding what’s included in your policy, and what isn’t, puts you back in control. Whether you choose to claim or pay privately, having clear information makes the decision easier.

Getting a clear quote first

If you’ve got a cracked windscreen or broken window and want to understand the cost before involving your insurer, getting a quote is a good place to start.

It’s quick, straightforward, and gives you a clearer picture of your options.

👉 Get an instant quote here:
https://www.ukwindscreens.uk/instant-quote