Wow that really sucks.
You might call the company rep to see what they say, but I would assume that it's a blanket disclaimer for their products.
As far as insurance goes, you might just want to call them and talk about it instead of just filing a claim. Some insurance companies are pretty good about stuff like this, and others not so much. The fact that it wasn't cause by an accident, or act of god would put this at owner fault in which case you would have to pay your deductible if you have one. My guess is a repair like that would cost at least a couple hundred dollars to prep and paint. you might want to get an estimate from a local paint shop just to see what you'd be getting into.
I feel you on the poor college student area, but it's looking like one of those things that you might end up having to either bite the bullet or just live with it.
Good Luck!