Storms bring in floods and debris, which can severely damage your vehicle. With the increasing consequences of climate change, these extreme weather events are only more likely to affect you. Fortunately, some auto and home insurance policies cover the costs of repairing and replacing your car if it’s damaged by a storm.
An average of six hurricanes a year hit Canada, mostly affecting Nova Scotia, Newfoundland, Labrador, and Quebec. The aftermath can be particularly devastating to your car’s windshield, engine, or electrical system – rendering it impossible to use and expensive to repair.
Read on to learn whether your insurance policy covers storm damage, what types of weather-related events you might be insured against, and what you can do to mitigate the risks.
Is Storm Damage Covered by Insurance in Canada?
While it depends on your specific policy, your auto or home insurance may cover storm damage to your car. This could even include the cost of replacing the items that were inside the vehicle .
It’s important to note that the minimum auto insurance requirements typically only cover costs related to accidents and, as such, exclude damage caused by extreme weather events. That said, you can purchase additional coverage so that you have peace of mind during unexpected natural disasters.
Special Circumstances Covered by Insurance
Aside from the usual types of damage your vehicle may suffer because of a storm, there are a couple of other scenarios that your insurer may cover. This includes:
What to Do if Your Car Is Damaged by a Storm
The steps you take after a storm can make or break your insurance claim. Here’s what you need to do:
- Make sure to contact your insurance provider and file a claim as soon as possible.
- Take plenty of photos and/or videos of the damage.
- If it’s safe to do so, clean your car and the affected items to prevent further exposure and water damage.
- Do not get rid of any damaged items until someone comes to assess your claim.
- Keep any invoices, receipts, and other documents for expenses that support your claim.
Tips to Protect Your Car From Storm Damage
When it comes to unexpected weather events, prevention is better than cure. Keep these tips in mind to keep your auto insurance claims to a minimum, even after a severe storm:
- Check the Canadian Hurricane Centre for weather warnings and emergency preparation tips.
- Stay updated with weather forecasts so that you can take preventive measures, such as moving your car to a more protected area in the days or hours leading up to a storm.
- Park inside your garage, avoiding driveways, the side of the street, and other exposed outdoor areas.
- If you park outside, cover your car and keep windows closed. This can prevent or at least minimize the risk of water leaks and hail damage.
- Do not park under large trees or near large items. If you must, secure any objects that may move and collide with your car during a storm.
- If you live in a high-risk area, consider upgrading your coverage to include common perils such as flooding.
Key Advice From MyChoice
- Read your policy thoroughly or check with your insurance agent or broker to know what’s covered – and what isn’t – in case of extreme weather events. While most home or auto insurance policies insure against storm-related risks, not all do.
- Keep your car well-maintained and take the necessary steps to protect it from storm damage. This reduces the chance that insurers will deny your claim on the grounds of personal responsibility.
- Regularly review your policy to ensure it offers the right amount of protection. Consider extending your coverage to include more perils or increase your policy limits if you live in a flood or storm-prone location.