Hail Damaged Car: Repair, Insurance, Write Off?
We've all been there. You're sitting at home, enjoying a quiet cup of tea, when suddenly, you hear that unmistakable sound—hail. Not the gentle kind either, but the kind that makes you rush to the window, hoping your car is safe. And then, you see it: tiny ice missiles raining down, turning your car into an unfortunate target. You’re left wondering, "What now?" Do you repair it, go through insurance, or is it destined to be written off?
Let’s dive into the steps you can take if you find yourself dealing with a hail-damaged car and explore your options for getting things back on track.
Step 1: Assess the Damage
First things first, you need to assess the damage. Not all hail damage is created equal. Sometimes it’s just a few small dents, and other times, your car looks like it’s been through a serious battle.
Check for Obvious Damage: Look for dents on the bonnet, roof, boot, and side panels. Don’t forget to check your mirrors and windows; hail can crack or even shatter glass.
Look for Hidden Damage: Open the bonnet and check for any signs of damage to the engine or components. Hail can sometimes cause cracks in lights or damage parts that aren’t immediately visible.
Take Photos: Snap plenty of photos from different angles. These will be helpful for insurance claims or if you decide to sell the car later on.
Step 2: Contact Your Insurance Company
If you have comprehensive car insurance, hail damage is typically covered. Here's what to do:
Make a Claim: Contact your insurer as soon as possible. The longer you wait, the more complicated things might get. Most insurance companies have an easy online claims process, so take advantage of it.
Provide Details: Be ready to provide details about the incident—when it happened, where your car was, and the extent of the damage. Remember those photos you took? Now’s the time to use them.
Arrange an Assessment: Your insurer will likely want to assess the damage. This could mean bringing your car to a repair centre or having someone come to you.
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Step 3: Decide on Repair or Write-Off
Now comes the big question—to repair or not to repair? Here's how to decide:
Repair: If the damage is mostly cosmetic (dents and dings) and your car is relatively new or valuable, repairing might be the best option. Many repairs, especially paintless dent removal (PDR), can be done quickly and at a reasonable cost. Insurance will often cover these repairs, minus your excess.
Example: Let’s say your car is only a few years old, and the damage is mostly to the panels. PDR could be a great solution, as it’s non-invasive and keeps the original paintwork intact. You’ll keep the car's resale value high and avoid having it written off.
Write-Off: If the cost to repair your car exceeds its market value, the insurer might declare it a write-off. This often happens with older vehicles or those with significant damage. The payout will be based on the car’s current market value minus your excess.
Example: Your 10-year-old sedan, with hail damage on almost every surface, might not be worth repairing. In this case, the insurance company may offer you a payout, and you can decide if you want to take the money or retain the car as a “repairable write-off” (if you’re up for some DIY repair).
What If You Don't Have Comprehensive Insurance?
If you’re only covered by third-party insurance, you’re on your own with repair costs. In this case, you’ve got a few options:
Repair Out-of-Pocket: If the damage is minor, you might choose to repair it yourself or pay a professional. PDR is often the cheapest and quickest option for small dents.
Leave It As Is: You can also choose to live with the damage, especially if it doesn’t affect the car’s safety or drivability. Just be aware that hail damage can lower your car’s resale value.
How Much Will It Cost to Repair Hail Damage?
Repair costs can vary depending on the extent of the damage and the type of repair needed.
Paintless Dent Removal (PDR): Generally costs between $100 and $200 per panel. It’s quick, non-invasive, and keeps your car’s original paint intact.
Panel Beating and Respray: More extensive damage that requires a respray can cost $500 to $1,500 per panel. This is a more time-consuming and expensive option but may be necessary for severe dents or scratches.
Replacing Windows or Lights: If your car’s windows or lights were shattered, expect costs to vary significantly based on your vehicle's make and model. Replacing a single window might set you back $300 to $800.
A Quick Word on “Repairable Write-Offs”
If your car is declared a repairable write-off, you can choose to repair it yourself. But keep in mind:
It Must Pass Inspection: Before you can register it again, it must pass a written-off vehicle inspection (WOVI) to ensure it’s safe to drive.
It Might Affect Resale Value: Even after repair, a car that’s been written off will usually be worth less than an equivalent car without a write-off history.
Final Thoughts: Choosing What’s Best for You
At the end of the day, the decision to repair or write off your hail-damaged car is a personal one. Consider the age and value of your vehicle, the extent of the damage, and whether the cost of repairs is worth it. Remember, there’s no one-size-fits-all answer—just the choice that feels right for you.
If you're ever in doubt, give your insurance company a ring, chat with a local repairer, or even speak to a mate who’s been through it before. Whatever you decide, know that there are always options, and you don't have to go it alone.
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