Can You Claim for Window and Door Replacements on Insurance?

Replacing windows or doors isn’t always cheap — so it’s natural to wonder if your insurance can help cover the cost.

The short answer? Sometimes yes, but not always.

At Windows and Doors Newcastle, we’ve supported many customers who needed new windows or doors after a break-in, storm damage, or accidental impact. In some cases, their home insurance covered everything. In others, they were surprised to find they had to pay out of pocket.

In this guide, we’ll break down when you can (and can’t) claim for replacement windows and doors on your UK insurance, what to check in your policy, and how to improve your chances of a successful claim.

When Home Insurance Will Cover Window and Door Replacements

Most standard UK home insurance policies include buildings cover, which protects the structure of your property — including windows and doors.

You can usually claim if the damage is caused by:

• Storms or high winds (e.g. shattered glass, blown-in doors)
• Break-ins or attempted burglaries
• Vandalism
• Accidental damage (if this cover is included)
• Fallen trees or flying debris
• Fire or explosions

In these cases, your insurer should cover the cost of repair or full replacement, minus any excess.

For example:

If your front door was damaged during a break-in, your insurer may cover a brand new, secure composite door and professional fitting. At Windows and Doors Newcastle, we’ve worked with customers in Heaton and Gosforth to install emergency replacements after similar incidents.

When Insurance Typically Won’t Cover You

Unfortunately, not all window or door issues qualify for a claim.

Your insurer is unlikely to cover replacements caused by:

• General wear and tear
• Poor maintenance or neglected repairs
• Rotting timber or frame corrosion over time
• Misty windows due to seal failure (unless linked to damage)
• Upgrading for energy efficiency or style

In other words, if your windows are simply old, draughty, or no longer matching your home’s look — you’ll need to fund the replacement yourself.

What to Check in Your Insurance Policy

Every policy is different, so take a few minutes to check:

• Is accidental damage included? This is usually an optional extra.
• Are doors and windows covered under buildings insurance? (They should be.)
• What’s your excess? You’ll need to pay this amount before a payout is made.
• What are the exclusions? Some insurers don’t cover storm damage unless winds exceed a specific speed.
• Do you need proof of forced entry for burglary claims? Most do.

It’s worth calling your insurer to clarify anything you’re unsure about before making a claim.

How to Make a Successful Insurance Claim

If your windows or doors have been damaged and you think your insurance should cover it, follow these steps:

1. Take Photos Immediately

Capture all damage from multiple angles — including any signs of forced entry, broken glass, or impact.

2. Secure the Property

If your door is broken or your window smashed, make the area safe. We often help customers with temporary boarding or same-day replacements around Newcastle.

3. Contact Your Insurer

Report the damage as soon as possible. They may send an assessor or ask for quotes from local contractors.

4. Get Written Quotes

We can provide a detailed, written quote from Windows and Doors Newcastle for insurance purposes — including product details and fitting.

5. Keep All Receipts

If you pay for emergency work upfront, keep the invoice to submit with your claim.

Can You Upgrade During a Replacement?

Yes — but your insurer will only cover the cost of a like-for-like replacement. If you want to use this as an opportunity to install a higher-spec product (e.g. switch from uPVC to composite, or double to triple glazing), you’ll need to pay the difference.

We often help customers upgrade beyond what their insurer covers — and we’ll make sure the entire process is handled smoothly.

What If You’re a Landlord?

If you rent out a property in Newcastle, your landlord buildings insurance should include the same window and door cover — provided damage wasn’t caused by a tenant’s neglect.

Tenants, on the other hand, are responsible for contents insurance only and usually can’t claim for structural items like doors or glazing.

What If It’s a Commercial Property?

For business premises, check your commercial buildings insurance. Most include door and window cover, especially if the damage interrupts trading or creates a security risk.

We offer secure replacement doors and fast window repairs for shops, offices, and commercial units throughout the North East.

Final Thoughts: Know Before You Claim

Yes, you can claim for window and door replacements on insurance in the UK — but only when specific damage has occurred.

If you’re ever unsure, speak to your insurer and ask us for a quote. At Windows and Doors Newcastle, we’re happy to provide supporting documentation and expert installation that meets all safety and insurance standards.

Need help securing your home or filing a claim? Contact our team for fast, friendly advice and emergency support across the North East.