Shop Local: FAQs on glass repair, insurance claims and shopping locally

When it comes to replacing your auto glass, the local options aren’t always clear.

That’s why we caught up with Chris Cornwell from River Glass and Tint, LLC and Mark Clark at Hubbard Insurance Agency. We want to help make you aware of your power to choose when it comes to your glass replacement services and supporting your local community.

The Options

First off, when you come across issues with your glass, your insurance agency knows different ways that you may handle your claim.

• First option - You can go straight to the local Glass Contractor that you’d like to work with, like River Glass and Tint. You can provide them with your insurance information, and they will initiate the claim for you; working with your insurance agent.
• Second option – You can call your agent who will report the claim to the insurance company. The Insurance Company will suggest a vendor that you can use at your convenience. Your insurance agent will advise you of your deductible, if any, and obtain a claim number from your insurance company. When the job is done, you simply pay the deductible, and the insurance company pays the rest. Because Hubbard Insurance Agency, is in the Northern Neck, they can recommend someone that you may know. Larger Insurance companies and agents may face challenges pin-pointing contractors that are as close to your location.
• Third option – You can call your insurance carrier directly to report the claim, but you have the option to choose the local vendor you would like to do the work…just be sure to emphasize that you want to deal locally!

We believe that the first option is your best option. Anytime that you can choose the company that you want, work with them directly, and support your local economy, it’s a win every time!

The Benefits

Did you know that local contractors can also be Safelite and Lynx certified installers? River Glass is, and so they can still work your claim if there is a requirement for this through your insurance company.

Scheduling an appointment can also be easier too. Regarding his shop, Chris says that if you need a windshield replaced and can get the order called in before 9:00 a.m., in most cases; their team can install it the same day. Whereas, non-local corporations sometimes have to schedule appointments farther out to combine them with other appointments in the region.

When it comes to the warranty, you don’t have to sacrifice your needs either. Chris is happy to report that River Glass and Tint has had no issues or returns to date. They do offer warranties on their products and service, but they can often address issues with outside warranties faster since they have local of their connections and a great relationship with those businesses.

The Expertise

Don’t be quick to assume that a local contractor has less technology or resources available either. While River Glass prefers to work on vehicles in the shop where there is more access to better tools, and they can ensure a better installation; they also have a mobile unit and can offer customer pick up, returns, and on-site installations. Special resources and techniques also keep them on the cutting edge.

We hope that this article will help you see that local options don’t just provide savings to your money and time. They can be a great quality resource that allows you to work with some you know and trust.

About River Glass | Website | Facebook | 804-435-9771
River Glass and Tint is a family owned business, first opened by Chris’s father, Eric Cornwell in 2003. It’s a full-service glass, solar film and window tint operation in the Northern Neck. They handle auto, marine, residential, commercial glass, Plexiglas and Lexan. The shop also takes custom requests.

About Chris of River Glass & Tint LLC
Chris was born and raised in the Northern Neck. One of his favorite things about doing business here is that his friends and neighbors represent the majority of his customer base. He’s passionate about his company, the service his team provides, and the benefits you’ll get by ‘shopping local.'

About Hubbard Insurance Agency, Inc. | Website | 804-435-1144
Hubbard Insurance Agency has been an independent insurance agency in Kilmarnock since 1928. Established by Charles Hubbard, the business has been owned by the Hubbard and now Clark family since inception. They offer personal and commercial insurance in the Northern Neck and Middle Peninsula area, with access to more than a dozen insurance companies to obtain competitive prices and coverage.

About Mark of Hubbard Insurance Agency
Mark is a native of Lancaster County, a graduate of Hampden-Sydney College, and gets great enjoyment from the hunting and fishing that the Northern Neck offers. He has been in the insurance business since 1981, moving back home in 1987 to Hubbard Insurance. He is the President of Hubbard Insurance and holds the Certified Insurance Counselor designation (since 1986) and is a licensed Property/Casualty and Life/Health agent.

What about you?

If you have a way to clear things up when it comes to tapping into our local economy then email banklocal@chesbank.com with your topic for consideration. Once the topic is approved, we can work with you to help write the article. Approved articles will be featured on this blog and also on our social media platforms, tagging you or your organization where applicable. Thank you! #TheBuckStaysHere