How to Claim Windscreen Insurance NRMA

Ever had the unfortunate experience of a cracked or shattered windscreen while driving? If you’re an NRMA insurance holder, the process of claiming windscreen insurance might be easier than you think. Let’s dive into the process of how you can make a claim, the eligibility requirements, the paperwork involved, and some useful tips to ensure that you get the best out of your insurance policy. Here’s everything you need to know about making a windscreen insurance claim with NRMA.

The First Step: Stay Calm and Assess the Damage

Before you start the process of claiming your windscreen insurance, the first step is to stay calm. Windscreen damage can happen unexpectedly, whether it's due to a stone flying off the road, a hailstorm, or an unfortunate accident. Inspect the damage carefully to see if it requires immediate attention, such as a full replacement, or if it can be repaired with a quick fix.

When inspecting, try to note the size, location, and severity of the damage. A small chip might just need a repair, whereas a full crack might require a total windscreen replacement. NRMA typically covers both types of claims, but having clarity on the severity will help you communicate better with the insurance provider.

Gather Your Policy Details

One of the first things you’ll need to do before starting a claim is to gather your NRMA insurance policy details. You can find these in your policy document, through the NRMA mobile app, or by logging into the NRMA website. Having the policy number, your personal information, and the details of the vehicle will make the process quicker and smoother.

Also, be sure to check your level of cover. If you have comprehensive car insurance with NRMA, windscreen cover might already be included, but it's important to review your policy to confirm if there are any specific terms and conditions.

NRMA Windscreen Insurance: What Does It Cover?

One of the biggest questions policyholders have is: what exactly does NRMA windscreen insurance cover? NRMA offers both repair and replacement coverage for windscreens, depending on the nature of the damage.

For minor chips and cracks, NRMA usually opts for repair over replacement. Repairs are not only quicker but often more economical. However, in cases where the windscreen is severely cracked or shattered, a full replacement will be covered.

In addition to the windscreen itself, NRMA also covers damages to the car’s side windows and rear windows under their glass insurance policy. This comprehensive glass coverage ensures that you're protected from most glass-related incidents on the road.

NRMA might also cover recalibration costs if your vehicle has advanced safety systems that rely on sensors attached to the windscreen.

Steps to File a Windscreen Claim with NRMA

Now that you understand what’s covered, here’s a step-by-step guide on how to file your windscreen insurance claim:

1. Contact NRMA: You can start the claim process by either calling NRMA directly or going online via their website or mobile app. Their customer support team is well-equipped to guide you through the steps, whether it’s repair or replacement.

2. Choose a Service Provider: NRMA has a list of approved service providers, including specialized windscreen repair companies. You may be asked to visit one of these providers for an inspection of the damage. If it’s a minor repair, they might even be able to fix it on the spot.

3. Repair or Replacement Decision: The service provider will assess whether the windscreen can be repaired or if it needs to be replaced. If the damage is less than a certain size (usually around the size of a coin), they may repair it quickly. For larger cracks or complete shattering, a full replacement will be necessary.

4. No Excess for Repairs: If your windscreen can be repaired, NRMA typically does not charge an excess for the repair. This is a huge benefit to policyholders, as it saves both time and money. For a full windscreen replacement, an excess might apply, depending on your policy.

5. Get the Job Done: Once the decision has been made, the repair or replacement can be carried out. For full replacements, the recalibration of any safety systems will also be handled by the approved provider.

Avoiding Common Pitfalls

When claiming your windscreen insurance, there are a few common mistakes you’ll want to avoid. First, don’t delay reporting the damage. Some small chips can expand into full cracks over time, especially with temperature fluctuations or further road debris impact. The sooner you address the issue, the more likely it is that a simple repair will suffice, saving you time and possibly avoiding any excess fees.

Another common issue arises when policyholders use non-approved repairers. Always make sure that the repairer you choose is approved by NRMA to avoid any complications in the claim process.

Costs Involved: Is It Free?

One of the most common questions regarding windscreen insurance claims is: “Do I have to pay for it?” The answer depends on the nature of the damage and your specific policy. For windscreen repairs, NRMA usually covers the entire cost without charging any excess. However, for a replacement, there might be an excess payment involved. The excess fee varies depending on your policy details, so it’s crucial to check this before filing a claim.

For example, if you have opted for a lower excess when setting up your policy, you might have to pay a small amount (e.g., $100-$200) for a full replacement. On the other hand, some policies come with a $0 excess for windscreen claims, which means you won’t pay anything out of pocket.

How Long Does It Take?

The time taken to repair or replace your windscreen varies based on the severity of the damage. A simple chip repair can take as little as 30 minutes, while a full replacement might take a few hours. NRMA-approved service centers often aim to get you back on the road as quickly as possible.

In urgent cases, such as when the damage is severe enough to obstruct your view, NRMA providers may offer mobile services where they come to your location for the repair or replacement.

Do I Need to Lodge a Police Report?

In most cases, a police report is not necessary for windscreen damage, especially if it’s the result of an accident, road debris, or natural events like a hailstorm. However, if the damage was caused by an act of vandalism or theft, you may need to file a police report as part of the claim process. NRMA may ask for a case number or police report in these situations to ensure that the damage wasn't part of a larger incident.

Protecting Your Windscreen: Future Tips

While your windscreen is insured, taking steps to protect it can save you the hassle of future claims. For example:

• Avoid following large trucks closely on highways, as they can kick up stones and debris.
• Park in shaded areas or garages to prevent sun damage or cracking due to extreme heat.
• Repair chips early to prevent them from spreading into larger cracks.

What if My Claim is Denied?

Though rare, there are instances where an NRMA windscreen claim might be denied. This typically happens if the damage was pre-existing before you purchased the policy or if the damage was caused by deliberate actions. If your claim is denied and you feel it was unjust, NRMA has an internal review process where you can contest the decision.

In extreme cases, you may also escalate the issue to an insurance ombudsman or legal professional to review your case.

Conclusion

Claiming windscreen insurance with NRMA is a straightforward process, provided you follow the proper steps and know what your policy covers. By staying calm, gathering your policy details, and choosing approved repairers, you can have your windscreen repaired or replaced with minimal hassle. Always review your policy to understand any potential excess payments and ensure that you report any damage promptly to avoid further complications.

With NRMA’s comprehensive coverage and excellent customer service, you can rest assured that windscreen damage is one less thing to worry about.