Purchase a hail damaged rig?

I was just camping next to a couple that bought a new, hail damaged Lance truck camper. They paid less than 1/3 the regular asking price. They basically stole it!

Damage was there, but not too bad. And now they don't worry about hail damage!

I would consider it. But look closely for signs of water damage. If windows or skylights were broken, there's a very good chance a lot of water got in.

If it's more from a lot of pea-sized hail, I would consider it.

A friend of mine got caught in a hailstorm in Montana a couple of years ago. One entire side of the trailer (the upwind side) was covered in tiny dimples. It was totally cosmetic, but a significant repair cost. If you don't care about that type of damage, then go for it.

It would most likely have a Salvage Title. Which is not going to be insurable but if in decent shape could still be viable. But it would have to be a really low price for me to get in that game.

Part of your buying decision may be how comfortable you are with lack of insurance. Many insurers won't underwrite a policy on a vehicle that is "totalled".

Just think of the better mileage with the dimples due to less wind resistance.....just like a golf ball (or the Myth Busters Car).

Serious......
Was this trailer 'totaled' by insurance company?
Does it have a clear title or a salvage title?

Type of roof?
Cosmetic damage or more intense?
Hail usually is followed by RAIN?

Lot of factors to consider and INVESTIGATE

Without a professional third party inspection of the rubber roof and wood beneath I wouldn't touch a hail damaged rig. They may give a small discount but when you start having leaks, soft spots, failed caulking, decals falling off etc then what. This is all just hypothetical but seriously unless its a huge savings I would personally pass.

Just remember a new unit in perfect condition is many times discounted 30 percent.

I'd picture most hail damage to an RV to be cosmetic, apart from broken windows/vent covers. So, if there are no issues there and you don't care about camper acne, go for it IMHO.

What does the hail damage amount to? A few dents in the roof, or?

Bill

For me it would depend on how bad the hail damage is, I would check really close for damage, it may cost more to repair than the savings, also Will it still have manufacturer's warranty ? (if it is a new unit)