Is there any disadvantage in getting the windscreen replaced through the insurance company?
I generally don't bother claiming for small claims, but Autoglass told me that they will do all the paperwork and I won't be affected in any way.
I rang Glennons to make sure. I have windscreen cover and the claim won't affect me. If I switch insurance company next year, I will still have a no claims certificate for 5 years or 10 years or whatever the max is.
Incidentally they would charge me €195 for doing it at their premises but only €250 for doing it at my home. As it would take over two hours before I could drive off again, it's well worth getting it done at home.
They will look at the chip to decide whether it can be repaired or not before replacing it.
Brendan