What should I do first if a window is broken?

Keep people and pets away from broken glass, carefully clear any loose glass if it is safe to do so, and board up or cover the opening to secure the property before contacting a glazier.

Can I board up a broken window myself?

A temporary board-up using plywood can be a reasonable short-term measure if you can do it safely, but a professional glazier should assess and repair the window as soon as possible, especially for double glazing or security concerns.

How much does emergency window repair cost?

Emergency window repairs typically cost between £100 and £400, depending on the glass type, window size and whether a full unit replacement is needed.

Is broken window damage covered by home insurance?

Damage from break-ins, storms or accidents is often covered by home insurance, but check your policy for any excess or specific conditions, and report break-ins to the police for a crime reference number.

What causes windows to break?

Common causes include storm damage, accidental impacts, attempted break-ins, and seal failure in older double-glazed units leading to cracks over time.

Should I report a broken window to the police?

Yes, if the damage is the result of a break-in or vandalism, report it to the police to get a crime reference number, which is usually needed for an insurance claim.

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Homeowner Hub › Emergency Home Repairs › Broken Windows

Broken Windows

A broken window is a security and safety risk. Learn how to make your property safe immediately, typical repair costs and how to find a trusted window repair specialist.

Last reviewed: August 2026 · Reviewed by: The TopTenTrades Editorial Team

Quick Answer

1.Keep people and pets away from broken glass
2.Carefully clear loose glass if it is safe to do so
3.Board up or cover the opening to secure the property
4.Report break-ins or vandalism to the police
5.Contact a window repair specialist

Problem type: Emergency glazing / security
Typical trade: Window & glazing specialist
Urgency: High — security and weather risk
Typical repair time: 1–3 hours
Typical cost: £100–£400
Risk if ignored: Security risk, weather damage, injury from broken glass

What To Do

1.Keep people and pets well away from any broken or loose glass.
2.Wearing gloves, carefully clear loose glass into a sturdy container if it is safe to do so.
3.Board up or cover the opening with plywood or a sturdy board to secure the property from weather and intruders.
4.If the damage is from a break-in or vandalism, report it to the police for a crime reference number.
5.Take photos of the damage for an insurance claim.
6.Contact a window repair specialist to assess and repair or replace the window.

Signs You May Have This Problem

•Cracked, shattered or missing glass panes
•A window that will not open, close or lock properly
•Condensation trapped between double-glazed panes (seal failure)
•Visible gaps or damage around the window frame
•Draughts around the window even when closed

Common Causes

•Storm damage or debris impact
•Accidental impacts (e.g. from garden tools, sports, DIY work)
•Attempted break-ins or vandalism
•Seal failure in older double-glazed units
•Frame deterioration allowing glass to become loose

Broken Windows: Typical Costs

Repair	Typical Cost (UK)
Emergency board-up	£80–£150
Single pane glass replacement	£100–£250
Double-glazed unit replacement	£150–£400
Full window replacement	£300–£800+

Costs vary by glass type, window size, whether it is single or double glazing, and how urgently the repair is needed.

When Should You Call An Emergency Professional?

check_circleGlass is shattered or at risk of falling
check_circleThe window cannot be securely closed or locked
check_circleDamage is the result of a break-in
check_circleThere is a safety risk to people or pets in the property
check_circleThe window is above ground floor and difficult to safely board up yourself

How To Prevent This

•Check window seals and frames periodically for signs of wear
•Trim back trees or shrubs that could cause impact damage in storms
•Ensure locks and hinges are well maintained
•Consider laminated or toughened glass for added security
•Address small cracks promptly before they worsen

Verified Tradespeople, Not Just Reviews

TopTenTrades helps homeowners find verified professionals based on more than star ratings. Consider:

Qualifications
Experience
Insurance
Previous projects
Customer feedback

Need help with a broken window?

Find local window specialists who can help with:

Emergency glass replacement
Board-up services
Double glazing repairs
Frame repairs

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