Theft damage... Should I claim it?

[Dragonmike]

Hi all, this is my first post here! :D

I am wondering whether to claim the damage done by some moron on my passenger window from the insurance or not. Basically, they gotta replace the window and the plastic frame around it (as well as re-spray the post/A-pillar). Work+mats cost about £500, and I'm waiting on the price for the parts (can't imagine a Mustang window to cost very much, but maybe all in all I'm looking at £1000).

Now, considering I got protected NCB, in theory the insurance should cover £500 (as I have a 500 excess)... and not charge me more premium next year. Now how does it look in practice? I have a feeling that they might come with a "well, it's higher because your area is now not deemed as safe as before" or something like that... Or what if I change to another insurance company next year? If I report a claim, they'll charge more for sure, even if I tell them I had protected NCB, or not?

What's your experience on that sort of things?

[Phil_Version_1]

If you have a 500 excess then you will have to pay that ammount before the repairs get carried out. If it was just window damage then you could just claim for the glass and it wont affect your insurance at all. But if you do claim on your policy it will count as a fault claim (because your company will have to pay out) and your rate will more than likely go up at renewal, not by a huge margin but up it will go.

Your protected no claims bonus protects your 'Bonus' not your rate. Basically means you wont loose any discount you've earnt up until now through years of driving claim free. Ie:- (if you have 6 yrs protected, it will remain at 6 yrs protected not drop down) But if you claim on your policy, your rate will probably increase.

Best advise I can give - with the excess you have, best to get it done privatley.

[Dragonmike]

Thanks for the reply...

Considering I'm expecting around £1000 in repairs, don't you think I should rather claim it? Or do you think my premium is going to rise by over 500 next year because of this?

[Phil_Version_1]

Your rate isnt going to increase by £500, 5-10% increase at the most I would say. It's really a case of paying £500 xs or £1000 in repairs......

Sod it, claim - then at renewal next year call me and ill sort you out.

[gices]

I suppose what Phil is saying is right. Your best bet is to do it privately and not involve your insurance company as it might increase your premiums next year. Different garages charge different rates, so ask somebody to recommend you a mechanic and try getting the repair quote down. Good luck!