What to Do After Storefront Glass Breaks

Broken storefront glass is more than a cosmetic problem. It can create sharp-glass hazards, expose inventory and equipment, allow weather into the building, and interrupt normal business operations. The first objective is to protect people and secure the opening without making the damage worse.

1. Keep people away from unstable glass

Move employees, customers, tenants, and visitors away from the damaged opening. Do not pull on large cracked panes or try to remove hanging glass unless you are trained and equipped to do so. If the storefront faces a public walkway, create a safe buffer around the area until a professional can assess it.

2. Photograph the damage from a safe position

Take wide photos showing the storefront and surrounding frame, then closer photos of the broken pane, door, hardware, or impact area. If the incident may involve insurance, those images can help document the condition before temporary securing or repair work begins.

3. Record the basic job information

Note the property address, business name, approximate opening size if known, whether the door still locks, whether the opening is exposed to weather, and whether the property must remain open. Property managers should also include access instructions and an on-site contact.

4. Request emergency securing when needed

Final replacement glass may not always be available immediately. Temporary board-up or another securing method can help protect the property while the correct glass is measured, ordered, or prepared. For urgent damage, Beltway advertises 24/7 emergency glass and board-up service.

5. Notify the appropriate insurer or property contact

If the loss may be covered, follow the notice requirements in the applicable insurance policy. Keep the claim number, adjuster information, photos, estimate, and service documentation together. Beltway accepts insurance-related glass work and can provide estimates and available job documentation, but the insurer determines coverage, deductible, authorization, reimbursement, and payment.

6. Plan the permanent repair

The correct replacement depends on the opening, glass type, safety requirements, frame condition, door system, dimensions, and surrounding storefront components. A photo can help start the conversation, but final measurements or an on-site assessment may still be necessary.

What to send Beltway

• Property address or ZIP code
• Photos of the damaged glass and frame
• Whether the property is secure
• Storefront, door, or window type
• Approximate measurements if safely available
• Insurance company and claim number if applicable

Need urgent help? Call the 24/7 line. For planned work, text, email, or use the estimate form to send photos and details.