Overview: Storefront glass shattered? Learn the 7 essential steps to secure your Southern California business, from safety and insurance to emergency board-up and replacement. 

It’s every Southern California business owner’s nightmare: you arrive at your store in Los Angeles, Anaheim, or Riverside only to find your storefront glass shattered. Whether the result of vandalism, severe weather, or accidental impact, a broken glass front isn’t just an eyesore — it’s a serious security risk and a potential safety hazard for staff and customers.

Here’s what to do next to protect your property, comply with regulations, and minimize disruption to your business!

Prioritize Safety First   

Broken glass can pose an immediate threat. Before addressing the damage or calling for repairs, ensure that no one is injured. Then:

• Clear the area around the shattered glass.

• Cordon off or block access to prevent entry and accidental cuts.

• If glass is hanging or unstable, avoid disturbing it—it may collapse further.

In high-foot-traffic areas like Santa Monica or Long Beach, quickly placing safety cones or barricades is essential for public protection.

 Document the Damage   

Before cleanup or repair begins, thoroughly document the scene. This helps with insurance claims and potential police reports:

• Take clear, high-resolution photos from multiple angles.

• Note the time, date, and any witnesses or circumstances surrounding the event.

• If applicable, check security camera footage.

In cities like Pasadena, where security footage may be required for incident reporting, this step can be critical for liability purposes.

Notify Authorities (if necessary)   

If the glass was broken due to vandalism, burglary, or any suspicious activity, report it to local law enforcement. In some Southern California jurisdictions, like Glendale or Burbank, a formal police report may be required before insurance or repairs can proceed.

Make sure to secure a copy of the report for your insurance provider.

Contact Your Insurance Provider  

Commercial property insurance often covers glass damage, especially if it’s part of your business’s external envelope. When contacting your provider:

• Provide photos and details of the damage.

• Share any police reports or incident numbers.

• Ask about coverage for emergency board-up services, glass replacement, and potential business interruption.

Businesses in Orange County and San Bernardino should review policies ahead of time to ensure proper coverage for storefront glass—especially during storm season or civil unrest.

Arrange for Emergency Board-Up  

If replacement can’t happen right away, securing the storefront is a must. Emergency board-up services prevent:

• Theft or unauthorized entry

• Additional damage from weather

• Liability from exposed sharp edges

This step is crucial for retailers in busy corridors like Downtown LA or Huntington Beach, where loitering or looting risks may be elevated during off-hours.

Schedule Professional Glass Replacement  

Once safe and secure, the next step is replacing the glass. Commercial storefront glass must meet California Building Code requirements, especially for safety glazing and tempered glass standards. Choose replacement glass that aligns with:

• Impact resistance

• Energy efficiency (important in warm climates like Palm Springs)

• Security upgrades (e.g., laminated or reinforced glass)

In Torrance, West Covina, and other regulated business districts, this step often requires permits or inspections, so it’s best left to licensed professionals.

>> Related Reading: Why Every Retail Store Needs a Security Grille for After-Hours Protection

Final Thoughts  

A shattered storefront glass may feel like a crisis—but with a clear plan in place, you can turn a vulnerable moment into an opportunity to strengthen your building’s safety and resilience. By following the right steps — and leaning on trusted professionals—you’ll restore not just the glass, but the peace of mind your business needs to thrive.