Does car insurance cover hail damage?

Yes - comprehensive car insurance usually covers hail and storm damage, because it includes weather and natural-disaster events. Third-party, fire and theft and third-party only do not cover damage to your own car, so they won't pay for hail. You'll pay your excess on a hail claim, and a claim may affect your no-claim bonus.

Key takeaways

  • Comprehensive cover usually includes hail and storm damage.
  • Third-party options do not cover hail damage to your own car.
  • Highveld summer storms make hail a real risk in parts of South Africa.
  • You pay your excess on a hail claim.
  • Covered parking is the best way to avoid hail damage.

Which cover pays for hail?

Comprehensive car insurance covers weather events including hail, storms and flooding. Third-party, fire and theft and third-party only cover damage you cause to others, not weather damage to your own car - so they won't pay for hail.

How a hail claim works

Report the damage to your insurer, who will assess it and arrange repair, minus your excess. Severe hail can write a car off if repair costs exceed its value. A claim may affect your no-claim bonus.

How to protect your car from hail

Frequently asked questions

Is hail damage covered by comprehensive insurance?
Yes - comprehensive car insurance in South Africa typically covers hail and storm damage as an insured weather event. You'll pay your excess, and severe damage can result in a write-off. Third-party cover does not include hail.
Will a hail claim increase my premium?
A claim can affect your no-claim bonus and may raise your premium at renewal. For minor hail damage close to your excess, it can be worth weighing the repair cost against the effect on your premium.

Related guides

Compare and save

Get a free, no-obligation quote from South Africa's top insurers.

Get a Quote Now
Get a Quote →