Claims how-to
How a windscreen claim works
By Sipho Dlamini · 5 min read · Updated 24 June 2026
- Usually included in
- Comprehensive cover
- Chip repair
- Often cheaper and sometimes excess free
- Replacement
- Usually carries a windscreen excess
- No claim bonus
- Often not affected by glass only claims
A windscreen claim covers repairing or replacing your car's windscreen after a chip or crack. In South Africa most comprehensive policies include windscreen cover, often with a smaller or separate excess, and many insurers waive the excess for a chip repair rather than a full replacement. Lodge it like any claim by contacting your insurer.
Glass damage is common on our roads, so windscreen cover is one of the more frequently used parts of a policy. Knowing the rules helps you decide whether to claim.
This short guide covers repair vs replacement, excess, and the no claim bonus question.
What windscreen cover includes
Windscreen cover pays to repair or replace your front windscreen, and sometimes other glass, when it is chipped or cracked. It is normally part of comprehensive cover. Third party only policies do not include it. Check whether side and rear windows are covered too, as that varies.
Repair vs replacement
A small chip out of the driver's line of sight can often be repaired rather than replaced, which is cheaper and quicker. A long crack, or damage in the driver's view, usually needs a full replacement. Acting quickly on a chip can stop it spreading into a crack that forces a replacement.
Excess on windscreen claims
Many policies apply a smaller, separate windscreen excess rather than the full accident excess. Some insurers waive the excess entirely for a repair, while a replacement carries the windscreen excess. Confirm the figures on your schedule before you decide to claim.
Does it affect my no claim bonus?
Glass only claims often do not affect your no claim bonus, but this depends on your insurer's terms. If you are unsure, ask before lodging, because for a small repair it may be cheaper and simpler to weigh up the cost against any premium impact.
How to lodge a windscreen claim
Contact your insurer or use their app, give your policy details and a description of the damage, and they will direct you to an approved glass fitment supplier. Using an approved fitter usually means the insurer pays them directly, minus any excess. Keep the invoice and any warranty on the new glass.
Frequently asked questions
Is windscreen damage covered by car insurance?
Usually yes under comprehensive cover. Third party only policies do not cover your own windscreen. Check whether side and rear glass is included, as this varies by insurer.
Do I pay excess on a windscreen claim?
Often there is a smaller, separate windscreen excess. Some insurers waive it for a chip repair but apply it for a full replacement. Confirm the amount on your policy schedule.
Does a windscreen claim affect my no claim bonus?
Glass only claims often do not affect your no claim bonus, but it depends on your insurer's terms. Ask before lodging if you are unsure.
Should I repair or replace a cracked windscreen?
Small chips away from the driver's line of sight can often be repaired. Long cracks or damage in the driver's view usually need replacement. Fixing a chip early can prevent it spreading.
Can I use any windscreen fitter?
Insurers usually direct you to approved glass suppliers and pay them directly minus excess. Using a non approved fitter may mean you pay upfront and claim back, or it may not be covered.
How quickly should I claim for a chip?
Soon. A chip can spread into a full crack with temperature changes and bumps, turning a cheap repair into a costly replacement. Lodge the repair while it is still small.
