Understanding Hail Damage and Car Insurance
In Australia, most insurance providers offer four main types of car insurance coverage — ranging from basic third party to full comprehensive cover. While third party policies only cover your liability for damage to other people’s vehicles or property, comprehensive insurance provides the highest level of protection, including against natural events like hail damage.
Because of its extensive coverage, comprehensive car insurance is typically the most expensive option. However, it’s also the most secure if you’re concerned about unpredictable weather events. If hailstorms are common in your area, it’s worth comparing different comprehensive policies to ensure you get both value and adequate protection.
Does Comprehensive Insurance Cover Hail Damage?
Yes — most comprehensive car insurance policies include cover for storm-related damage, including hail. However, insurers may have specific conditions or exclusions, especially if your car has previously sustained hail damage. If your vehicle already has visible storm damage, some insurers may refuse to offer you a new comprehensive policy.
How to File a Hail Damage Insurance Claim
If your car is damaged by hail, the first step is to collect clear photo evidence of the damage. If you have any photos of your vehicle before the storm, these can help prove that the damage occurred during the weather event and was unavoidable. Once the damage is documented, your insurer will arrange for an assessor to inspect the vehicle and determine the severity of the impact.
Depending on the assessment, the insurer will decide whether your car can be repaired or if it is a total loss. If repairable, you’ll either be allowed to choose your own repairer or directed to one of the insurer’s preferred repairers. If they use a preferred repairer, the insurer usually pays them directly, and you’ll only be responsible for the policy excess.
If the vehicle is deemed a write-off, your compensation will depend on the type of cover you have. A market value policy means the insurer pays what the car was worth at the time of the incident. With an agreed value policy, you’ll be paid the predetermined sum listed on your policy document.
Things to Consider Before Making a Claim
Repairs for hail damage can be expensive, so it’s important to weigh up the cost of repairs versus the impact of making a claim. Submitting a claim may increase your future insurance premiums. Additionally, once a vehicle is registered as hail-damaged by your insurer, it can affect your ability to obtain full insurance cover in the future — especially for agreed value policies.
Can You Insure a Hail-Damaged Car?
Yes, but there may be limitations. If the damage is minor and does not affect the vehicle’s appearance or performance, some insurers may still offer you comprehensive cover — although often at a higher premium. However, if the damage is more severe, you may be required to have the vehicle repaired before any full insurance policy can be issued.
In some cases, insurers will only offer limited coverage such as third party property, or third party fire and theft, rather than full comprehensive protection. You may also be restricted to market value policies instead of agreed value options. It’s important to discuss all conditions with your insurer before committing to a policy.
If you’ve experienced hail damage and need expert guidance or high-quality repair work, contact Contour Body Repairs. Our experienced team will assist with your insurance claim, handle the assessor’s visit, and restore your vehicle to its best condition — all with minimal stress to you.
