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Damage & Claims

RV Hail Damage in Alberta: Claims and Repair Guide

Alberta gets some of the most intense hail in Canada, and an RV parked outside can take a real beating in minutes. Knowing what to do right after the storm, and how the claim process actually works, makes the difference between a clean repair and a long, frustrating one.

June 26, 2026 · 3 min read

What to do right after the hail stops

Once it is safe, walk around your RV and look it over in good light. Hail damage on an RV is not always obvious. Check the roof, the front cap, vent covers, skylights, the AC shroud, windows, and any exterior panels. Soft spots, cracked plastic, and dimpling on aluminium or fibreglass are all common after a hard storm.

Take clear photos of everything before you move or clean anything. Shoot wide shots that show the whole unit, then close-ups of each damaged area. Date-stamped photos from your phone are fine. These become the backbone of your insurance claim, so the more detail the better.

If the roof membrane is torn or punctured, water can get inside and cause far more damage than the hail itself. If you see openings, cover them with a tarp and tape as a temporary measure and keep the RV somewhere dry until it can be looked at properly.

How RV insurance claims usually work

Hail is normally covered under the comprehensive portion of an RV or trailer policy, not collision. If you only carry liability, hail damage may not be covered, so it is worth confirming your coverage before you file. Your policy documents or a quick call to your broker will tell you what you have.

When you open a claim, the insurer assigns a claim number and usually arranges for an adjuster to assess the damage. You will be responsible for your deductible, and the insurer covers the rest of the approved repair up to your policy limits. Keep your claim number, your adjuster's contact, and all your photos together in one place.

You generally have the right to choose where your RV is repaired. The shop can document the full extent of the damage, provide an estimate, and work directly with your adjuster so the approved scope matches what actually needs fixing.

Why hidden hail damage matters

The risk with hail is what you cannot see from the ground. A roof that looks fine can have bruised membrane, cracked sealant, or compromised seams that only show up under closer inspection. Left alone, those weak points let water in slowly over months, leading to soft floors, delaminated walls, and rot.

This is why a proper assessment matters even if the damage looks cosmetic. Getting the roof, seals, and cap checked thoroughly protects you from a small hail event turning into a major structural repair a year or two down the road.

A documented inspection also strengthens your claim. If the adjuster's first pass misses hidden damage, a detailed shop estimate gives you the evidence to have the scope reopened and corrected.

When to bring it to Horton in Calgary

If your RV took hail and you are not sure how bad it is, it is worth having it inspected before storing it or heading out on a trip. We can assess the roof, seals, panels, and structure, document the damage in detail, and give you an honest picture of what needs to be done.

Horton RV Services works with owners across Calgary and Alberta on hail claims, from the initial inspection and estimate through the actual repair. We can coordinate with your insurance adjuster so the approved work covers everything the storm affected, not just the obvious dents.

If you are dealing with hail damage and want a straight answer on next steps, reach out and we will walk you through it.

Common questions

Does my RV insurance cover hail damage?

Usually yes, if you carry comprehensive coverage. Hail falls under comprehensive rather than collision. If you only have liability, it may not be covered, so check your policy or ask your broker before filing.

Should I wash my RV before documenting hail damage?

Take your photos first. Capture wide shots and close-ups of every damaged area before cleaning or moving anything. Those images are the foundation of your claim and are hard to recreate later.

Can I choose my own repair shop for a hail claim?

In most cases yes. You generally have the right to pick where your RV is repaired. The shop can document the full damage, prepare an estimate, and work directly with your adjuster on the approved scope.

Ready to get back on the road?

Call the shop, send an email, or stop by. We’ll give you an honest assessment and a quick turnaround.