After a major hail storm, repair demand can increase quickly across Manitoba. With thousands of vehicles requiring assessments and repairs, waiting too long to start the process can limit appointment availability and create longer repair timelines.
According to Manitoba Public Insurance (MPI), approximately 20,000 claims were received following the recent severe weather event, putting 2026 on pace to exceed the highest number of claims received from a single weather event in Manitoba. As repair facilities manage increased demand, booking your hail repair early can help ensure your vehicle is assessed and scheduled for repair as soon as possible.
Why Repair Demand Increases After Major Hail Storms
Unlike routine vehicle repairs, hail storms can affect thousands of vehicles at the same time.
Following a significant weather event, drivers across Manitoba begin:
- Booking damage assessments
- Scheduling repair appointments
- Seeking glass repairs
- Looking for hail dent repairs
- Contacting Birchwood for guidance
This sudden increase in demand can place pressure on repair facilities and appointment schedules throughout the province.
What Happens When Thousands of Claims Are Filed at Once?
Following the recent hail storm, MPI reported receiving approximately 20,000 claims in a matter of days.
When large numbers of vehicles require repairs at the same time, repair facilities may experience:
- Increased appointment requests
- Higher demand for technicians
- Greater demand for repair materials
- Longer scheduling timelines
While every repair situation is different, major weather events often create a surge in repair activity across Manitoba.
Why Booking Early Matters
One of the simplest things drivers can do after discovering hail damage is contact Birchwood early.
Booking early can help:
- Secure your place in line
- Provide access to more appointment options
- Allow damage to be assessed sooner
- Give you a better understanding of repair requirements
- Help you plan for future repairs
Even if you’re still deciding how to proceed, having the damage assessed early can help you make informed decisions.
Parts and Material Availability Can Be Affected
While many hail repairs can be completed using Paintless Dent Repair (PDR), some vehicles may require replacement parts, glass, trim pieces, or body panels.
Following widespread hail events, demand for certain repair materials can increase as repair facilities across the province begin working on damaged vehicles.
Starting the repair process early allows repair teams to identify repair needs and plan accordingly.
Why Glass Damage Should Be Addressed Quickly
Many drivers focus on dents after a hail storm, but glass damage should also be inspected carefully.
Small chips can spread into larger cracks over time due to:
- Temperature changes
- Road vibrations
- Everyday driving conditions
Addressing glass damage early can help prevent additional damage and determine whether repair or replacement is required.
Frequently Asked Questions
Should I Wait to Book My Hail Repair Appointment?
It’s generally recommended to contact a Birchwood as soon as possible after discovering hail damage. Early booking can help secure appointment availability following major weather events.
Can Small Hail Dents Wait?
Even small dents should be assessed. A repair specialist can determine whether repairs are recommended and explain available repair options.
What If My Vehicle Only Has Glass Damage?
Glass damage should be assessed promptly, as small chips can spread into larger cracks over time.
Birchwood Is Here to Help
With approximately 20,000 claims already reported following the recent storm, many Manitoba drivers are beginning the repair process.
Birchwood operates Manitoba’s largest hail repair network, including three collision centres, dedicated hail repair facilities, a specialized Hail Repair Hotline, and OEM Certified repair capabilities.
If your vehicle has been damaged by hail, booking early can help secure your place in line and ensure you understand your repair options moving forward.
