Hello Mabs

Does car insurance cover external damage from natural disasters? I’ve been horrified by the damage to property caused by natural disasters in coastal towns. Cars have been swept away and even crushed while parked at home. Do insurance policies cover damage caused by natural disasters? What do they consider when replacing your car?

Mabs answers:

With ongoing climate change, our planet is raging and natural disasters are inevitable. Seeing roofs blown away and cars swept away is distressing, especially when it hits close to home. Knowing people affected makes it even harder to process. We must prepare for the worst and take care of our belongings, which is what insurance is for.

Now back to your question. Comprehensive auto insurance covers external damage to your car, including natural disasters like hail and floods. As I always emphasise, it’s crucial to read your insurance policy’s fine print as terms can vary from one cover to the other. Even if your car is written off due to flooding, you won’t automatically get a new car. The insurer will investigate each claim and ensure you did everything possible to protect your car. 

If an investigation finds you were negligent, like leaving windows and doors open during a storm, the insurer may refuse to pay. Your car is often your most expensive asset after your home, so it’s crucial to understand your insurance contract and obligations. Don’t wait until disaster strikes—it might be too late.