Is Hail Damage Covered by My Auto Insurance Policy?
Yes, but only if you have comprehensive, specified perils, or all perils coverage. While comprehensive coverage is the most common, specified perils also cover hail as a named hazard, whereas basic liability or collision coverage will not. Check your policy or speak to your broker to find out.
What to Do When Your Car is Damaged by Hail
Prevention is important, but sometimes your car may still be damaged. Below are the steps you should take as soon as you notice damage to your car.
Why You Should Get Hail Protection
Hail can cause dents, cracked windshields, broken lights, and severe car damage. In extreme storms, vehicles can be written off entirely. If you live in or travel through a hail-prone area, comprehensive coverage that includes hail damage is essential.
Recent events in Calgary show why this coverage matters. A July 13, 2025, hailstorm caused about $92 million in insured damage, and roughly 65% of claims were for vehicles.
How Much Does it Cost to Insure My Car?
In Ontario, adding comprehensive coverage to your policy generally increases your insurance costs by $200 a year. If you’re a driver in Alberta, it will cost you approximately $500 per year.
On the other side, hail damage costs can range from $1,000 to more than $10,000. This is especially true if your car has damaged parts that are expensive to replace.
Will a Hail Damage Claim Increase My Premiums?
Generally, a single comprehensive claim for hail damage will not increase your premium because it is considered a ‘not-at-fault’ peril. However, filing multiple comprehensive claims (including theft or vandalism) within a short window can lead to a higher deductible or a premium surcharge.
Can Hail Damage Fully Write Off My Vehicle?
Heavy hail can result in a write-off if repairs exceed the ‘Total Loss Threshold,’ typically 70% to 80% of the car’s Actual Cash Value (ACV), rather than the full 100%.
If repairs are estimated at 75% of the car’s value, insurers often declare a ‘Constructive Total Loss’ because the salvage value plus repair costs would exceed the vehicle’s worth.
How to Protect My Car From Hail Damage
You can take the following measures to protect your car from damage and yourself from the time and money it costs.
Key Advice from MyChoice
- Insurers generally require hail claims to be reported within seven days. If you suspect damage, take photos of the hail on the ground next to your car as proof of the storm’s severity.
- If your vehicle is less than 36 months old, ensure you have the Waiver of Depreciation endorsement. Hail damage can easily total a car; without this, you only get the “depreciated value,” which could be thousands less than what you owe on your loan.