Questions often arise over the limitations that exist in the commercial property coverage for glass contained in an insured building. The special causes of loss form, the broader of the commercial property forms, will provide full coverage for glass only in those situations when the loss is caused by one of the specified perils. Specified perils are listed in the policy as fire; lightning; explosion; windstorm or hail; smoke; aircraft or vehicles; riot or civil commotion; vandalism; leakage from fire extinguishing equipment; sinkhole collapse, volcanic action; falling objects; weight of snow, ice or sleet; or water damage, subject to policy limitations and exclusions. On the subject of glass, vandalism is excluded. If a loss is caused by an unnamed peril, and not excluded, glass recovery is limited to $100 per plate, pane or multiple panes, and to not more that $500 per occurrence. 

There is a glass coverage form that can be added to your policy that expands coverage to cover all direct physical loss or damage to glass, its lettering and ornamentation. The form requires that the specifications of those glass panes, including their lettering or ornamentation, be described in the glass breakage schedule. Many policyholders feel their probable loss will be less than their deductible, and choose to self-insure their own glass. Others, more concerned about a large loss occurring, choose to include the glass coverage form as part of the total insurance package. If  you have a question about your own coverage, do not hesitate to call your independent insurance agent.