Does Replacing Your Windshield Raise Insurance in BC? | ICBC Guide

Jan 8

Does Replacing Your Windshield Raise Your Insurance in British Columbia?

If you’ve noticed a crack or chip spreading across your windshield, one of the first questions most BC drivers ask is: “Will replacing my windshield raise my insurance?”

The short answer? In most cases, no — especially when dealing with ICBC. Let’s break it down clearly and honestly.

How ICBC Views Windshield Replacement Claims

In British Columbia, windshield replacements fall under comprehensive insurance coverage through ICBC. This type of claim is non-collision related, meaning it’s usually caused by things like:

Flying rocks or road debris
Sudden temperature changes
Stress cracks
Falling objects

Because these incidents are typically out of your control, ICBC generally does not increase your insurance premiums for a windshield replacement claim.

Will My ICBC Premium Go Up After a Windshield Claim?

No — a single windshield replacement claim does not raise your insurance rates with ICBC.

ICBC does not treat windshield claims the same way as at-fault collision claims. Your:

Safe driving discount
Claim history
Insurance rating

…are not impacted by a standard windshield replacement.

What About the Deductible?

Most ICBC policies include a comprehensive deductible, commonly:

$200
$300
$500

If you have comprehensive coverage, you’ll usually just pay your deductible — ICBC covers the rest.

💡 Good news: Many ICBC-approved glass shops (including Dynasty Glass) often provide additional value, such as complimentary coatings or services, to make the deductible feel worth it.

Can Multiple Windshield Claims Affect My Insurance?

While one claim won’t raise your rates, frequent claims over a short period of time may be reviewed by ICBC. That said, windshield damage is extremely common in BC due to road conditions, and ICBC understands this.

If you’re unsure, it’s always best to speak with an ICBC-approved shop that can walk you through your specific coverage before submitting a claim.

Can I Choose My Own Auto Glass Shop with ICBC?

Yes — you are not required to go where ICBC tells you.

You can choose any ICBC-approved auto glass repair facility, and the shop can:

Submit the claim directly to ICBC
Confirm your coverage and deductible
Handle the paperwork for you

At Dynasty Glass, we deal with ICBC claims every day and make the process simple and stress-free.

When Should You Replace Instead of Repair?

ICBC typically allows chip repairs when damage is small. However, replacement is required if:

The crack is longer than a loonie
The damage is in the driver’s line of sight
The crack is spreading
There are multiple chips

Driving with a cracked windshield can also result in a failed safety inspection or ticket.

Final Answer: Does Replacing Your Windshield Raise Insurance in BC?

✅ No — replacing your windshield through ICBC does not raise your insurance premiums in most cases.
As long as the damage is non-collision related and covered under comprehensive insurance, your rates stay the same.