Four games into his Spotland return, Hill witnessed the club's first home win of 2013, which came courtesy of Rhys Bennett's 18th-minute effort.
The visitors' Rene Howe was gifted an opportunity early on when Shane Cansdell-Sherriff trod on the ball and slipped, presenting the striker with a clear run at goal. However, goalkeeper Josh Lillis was off his line quickly and foiled Howe's attempted chip, palming the ball to safety.
That chance aside, Rochdale made the stronger start and took the lead 18 minutes in through Bennett.
The right-back saw his initial shot parried by goalkeeper Michael Poke but was first to the loose ball and converted from close range.
Torquay closed the half in the ascendancy, thanks in part to some sloppy play from the hosts, and created another good chance when Billy Brodin went close as he collected Howe's low delivery, but he was unable to match a sharp turn with a composed finish as he fired over the top.
Shaun Taylor, standing in as Torquay manager with Martin Ling recovering from a debilitating illness, sent on Elliot Benyon midway through the second half but the Gulls were unable to break down a resolute Rochdale defence.
