Storms bring floods and debris that can severely damage your vehicle. Fortunately, some auto insurance policies cover the cost of repairing or replacing your car if a storm damages it.
Read on to learn whether your insurance policy covers storm damage, what types of weather-related events you may be insured against and what you can do to reduce the risk.
Does Insurance Cover Storm Damage in Canada?
Depending on your policy, your auto insurance may cover storm damage to your car.
Minimum auto insurance requirements may not cover damage caused by extreme weather events. You can purchase additional coverage for unexpected natural disasters.
If you have comprehensive insurance, all-perils insurance or specified-perils insurance that includes storm damage, you may be covered for damage caused by falling trees, rising water, hail, lightning and other insured perils.
Check your policy or talk to your insurance provider if you’re unsure whether your car is covered.
Your Car Was Damaged at Home
If a storm damages your car while it is on your property, the damage to the car would normally be considered under its auto policy. Damage to the garage or house would be considered under the home policy.
Home insurance may cover belongings damaged inside the vehicle, depending on the policy, deductible and limits.
Home policies may exclude outside water damage from floods or storms unless you have coverage that specifically includes it.
What to Do If a Storm Damages Your Car
- Contact your insurance provider and file a claim as soon as possible.
- Take photos or videos of the damage.
- Prevent further damage if it is safe to do so.
- Don’t get rid of damaged items until your insurer has assessed the claim.
- Keep invoices, receipts and other documents for expenses related to the claim.
- Check the Canadian Hurricane Centre for weather warnings and emergency preparation tips.
- Stay updated with weather forecasts so you can move your car to a protected area before a storm.
- Park inside your garage when possible.
- Keep your windows and sunroof closed.
- Don’t park under large trees or near objects that may fall or collide with your car.
- If you live in a high-risk area, check whether your policy includes common perils such as flooding.