Finding your storefront smashed is upsetting. Taking the right steps in the right order protects your staff, your stock and your insurance claim, so keep this list close by.
1. Put safety first
Stay out if you think someone may still be inside. Keep employees and customers clear of broken glass, which can keep falling from the frame long after the break.
2. Report it to the police
Insurers generally ask for a police report on vandalism and burglary claims. Write down the report number and the responding officer’s name.
3. Record the damage
- Before anything is moved, photograph the whole storefront and take close-ups of the damage.
- Take a picture of any label etched into a corner of the glass.
- Make a list of stolen or damaged merchandise and equipment.
4. Close up the opening
Call a commercial glass company with 24/7 emergency board-up. Its crew safely removes hanging glass, sweeps up the shards and installs plywood or temporary glazing so the property is secure overnight. Across DC, Maryland and Northern Virginia, CBE Glass picks up at (202) 492-0676 at any hour.
5. Notify your insurer
Send the police report number, your photos and the board-up invoice. Ask whether glass has separate coverage and whether more than one quote is needed.
6. Book the permanent repair
The glazier measures the opening and orders the right glass, usually tempered for doors and most storefront lites, sometimes laminated or insulated. Custom units can take a few days, and the board-up keeps you protected until then.
7. Reduce the risk of a repeat
- Look into security window film that keeps broken glass in place.
- Switch the most exposed openings to laminated glass.
- Confirm that your locks and door hardware are working correctly.
- For high-risk businesses, consider ballistic glazing and secure enclosures.
Planning a commercial glass project?
Businesses, building managers and general contractors throughout Washington DC, Maryland and Northern Virginia work with CBE Glass. Phone (202) 492-0676 (answered 24/7 for emergencies), write to bid@cbeglass.com or ask for a free estimate.
