While hail-damaged caravans can look like a budget-friendly option, there’s more to consider than the sticker price.

We asked 10 of Australia’s biggest caravan insurance companies the question “Do you insure used caravans with existing hail damage?”

From this list, six insurers advised us that they flat out wouldn’t cover caravans with existing hail damage.

However, four insurers—Suncorp, CIL, Allianz and NRMA—stated they might provide coverage if specific conditions are met, and you can provide proof of compliance.

These conditions include getting repairs that can cost tens of thousands of dollars, which may outweigh the initial savings.

This article explores the process of getting a hail-damaged caravan roadworthy and why taking on the financial and practical risks of such a purchase might not be in your best interest, even with some insurance options available.

Can i get insurance for a caravan with hail damage?

Insuring a hail-damaged caravan isn’t straightforward, as requirements and policies vary significantly based on which state you live in, the insurer, and the extent of the damage.

Even if an insurer offers coverage once the hail damage has been fully repaired by a professional, this is not always a straightforward process and can potentially cost more than the “savings” from purchasing a hail-damaged caravan in the first place. 

For a hail-damaged caravan to become insurable, you’ll need to ensure:

  1. The caravan must be classified as a repairable write-off. Caravans listed as statutory write-offs cannot be re-registered or insured.
  2. Repairs must be documented and certified by a recognised professional. This ensures the structural integrity of the caravan has been fully restored.
  3. The caravan must pass a state roadworthy inspection and be re-registered. Requirements vary across Australian states, so check your state government’s website for specific regulations.

Even after meeting these conditions, insurers may impose restrictions on your policy.

This could include higher premiums, limited coverage options, or exclusions for certain types of damage.

For instance, some policies may exclude future hail coverage or limit claims on previously repaired areas, leaving you vulnerable to significant out-of-pocket expenses.

On top of these challenges, there’s the uncertainty of repair costs—how can you know in advance how much it will take to restore the caravan to an insurable condition?

How Much Does Hail Damage Cost to Repair?

Repairing hail damage on a caravan can vary greatly depending on the extent of the damage and the materials affected. 

While some minor dings may seem purely cosmetic, serious hail damage can compromise a caravan’s structural integrity, especially for off-road use. 

Here’s a breakdown of typical repair costs to give you an idea of what’s involved:

  • Body panel repairs can cost anywhere between $300 for a very basic paintless dent removal to thousands of dollars for complete panel replacement and paint.
  • Cracked or shattered windows in most circumstances need complete replacement to maintain safety and insulation and can cost anywhere from $200 to $1,000+, depending on the type and size.
  • Roof damage can cause leaks or weaken the structure of your caravan and can cost between $1,500 to $5,000 depending on the severity and materials involved.
  • Seal and insulation repairs in cases where hail causes leaks is another cost you might need to factor in and averages around $500 to $2,000, depending on the areas affected.

Finally, paint and finishing touches to restore the caravans appearance can range from $2,000 to $8,000, depending on the caravan’s size and type of paint used.

Disclaimer: The repair cost estimates provided are general figures and may vary based on factors such as the extent of hail damage, the caravan’s make and model, location, and the specific repair shop’s rates. For accurate costs, it is recommended to consult local repair specialists who can provide tailored quotes based on the condition of your caravan. Additionally, insurers may have unique requirements, which could impact both repair choices and final costs.

As you can see, repair expenses can quickly add up and will most likely exceed the savings achieved through the initial purchase. 

On top of this, your insurer will then complete their own inspection of the repairs to ensure that all damage has been properly addressed and meets their coverage standards. 

This additional assessment can delay the insurance approval process and may even incur extra costs if further repairs are required to meet their criteria.

Why Buying a New Caravan Might Be Better (and Cheaper)

While a hail-damaged caravan might appear to offer short-term savings, a new caravan brings substantial benefits that make it a more secure and cost-effective choice in the long run. Here are a few reasons why opting for a new caravan might be the better investment:

  1. Full Insurance Coverage: A new caravan with no history of damage is eligible for full insurance coverage from day one. This provides financial security, knowing that any future incidents or damages will be covered without restrictions. With a hail-damaged caravan, even after repairs, insurers may impose higher premiums, limited coverage, or exclude certain areas previously affected by damage.
  2. Reliability and Durability: New caravans are built to withstand the elements and the challenges of Australia’s rugged landscapes. Without a history of damage, a new caravan is more likely to maintain its structural integrity over time, reducing the risk of costly repairs. This is particularly important for off-road use, where durability and reliability are essential for a safe adventure.
  3. Value Retention: New caravans tend to retain their value better than repaired ones, especially those with a history of hail damage. If you decide to sell in the future, a well-maintained caravan with no damage history will typically command a higher resale price, making it a better long-term investment.
  4. Warranty and Manufacturer Support: Buying new often comes with the added benefit of a manufacturer’s warranty, covering defects or issues for a certain period. This support can provide peace of mind, knowing that any unexpected problems will be handled without additional out-of-pocket expenses. Hail-damaged caravans rarely come with such warranties, and any existing warranties might be voided by the prior damage.
  5. Peace of Mind: Ultimately, a new caravan provides the peace of mind that comes with a clean history and full coverage. You can enjoy your travels with confidence, knowing that your caravan is built to handle the road ahead without the lingering concerns of past damage.

Opting for a new caravan might require a higher initial investment, but it’s one that pays off in security, durability, and overall value, making it the smarter choice for many buyers.

Tips for Inspecting a Hail-Damaged Caravan

If you’re still considering a hail-damaged caravan, it’s essential to carry out a thorough inspection to understand the full extent of the damage and potential repair costs. 

Here’s a checklist to help guide you through the inspection process:

Body Panels and Roof

Look for dents or cracks on body panels and the roof. 

While some dents might be purely cosmetic, cracks or deep dents can compromise the caravan’s structure and lead to leaks or further damage.

Hail damage on the roof can be especially problematic as it may affect the caravan’s ability to withstand rain and impact. 

Check for any punctures or weak spots that could lead to water ingress.

Hail can cause cracks or even shattering in windows and doors, which may require full replacement to ensure safety and insulation.

Check for chips or hairline cracks that could expand over time.

Damaged seals around windows and doors are a common issue in hail-damaged caravans. 

Ensure all seals are intact and functional to prevent leaks and maintain energy efficiency.

Water ingress from roof or window damage can lead to mould, rot, and insulation issues inside the caravan. 

Check for stains, discolouration, or damp areas on walls, ceilings, and floors.

If hail damage has caused leaks, the insulation might be compromised. 

Damaged insulation can impact temperature control and comfort during travel, so ensure it is in good condition.

Inspect the caravan’s chassis and frame for any signs of bending or weakened areas caused by hail impact. 

This is crucial for safe off-road performance, where structural strength is essential.

If the caravan has been previously repaired, ask for documentation detailing what was repaired, who performed the work, and whether the repairer offers any warranties on their work.

For peace of mind, consider having the caravan professionally inspected. 

Certified inspectors can assess the structural integrity, repair quality, and identify any hidden damage that may not be visible during a standard inspection.

By following these inspection tips, you’ll have a clearer understanding of the actual condition of a hail-damaged caravan. 

Keep in mind that, even with repairs, some damage can impact the caravan’s longevity, performance, and resale value.

Don’t Risk Buying a Lemon – Invest in a SWAG Off-Road Camper for your next Adventure

At SWAG, we deliver premium off-road campers built for Australia’s rugged terrain, designed to suit both first-time campers and seasoned adventurers. 

Known for quality and durability, our campers provide outstanding value, comfort, and off-road readiness at accessible prices.

Each SWAG camper is easy to tow, user-friendly, and available in versatile layouts for couples and families alike. 

With lightweight composite construction, our campers handle tight tracks and remote destinations with ease. 

Don’t compromise on reliability—choose SWAG and experience the freedom, safety, and durability you need for your next adventure.

Explore our range of hybrid caravans and pop-tops today and start your journey with confidence!