Handle a water damage claim

Steps to handle a motor vehicle water damage claim.

Prerequisites

Customer has reported water damage to their motor vehicle.

When this applies

Water damage can cause a number of potential problems in a vehicle, such as corrosion, mechanical and electrical problems, and mold.

Warning: Ensure you are wearing the appropriate personal protective equipment, if dealing with a potential mold issue.

Procedure

  1. Determine the likelihood of mold in the vehicle.
    If ... Then …
    • a water or flood-damaged vehicle has had its windows and doors closed for an extended period of time, or
    • you suspect a potential for mold
    • wear the appropriate personal protective equipment (PPE)
    • vent the vehicle outdoors
    • avoid breathing the air in the vehicle, and
    • refer to the health and safety rules for further guidance.
    Caution:
    Personal safety is paramount. Exposure to mold and its airborne spores is a biohazard and may cause breathing issues, or trigger allergic or asthmatic conditions in some people.
    you have no reason to suspect mold proceed to step 2.
  2. Look for signs of water damage in all the following locations:
    • under the hood
    • under the seats
    • under the carpets
    • under the dash, and
    • in the trunk.
  3. Check that the electrical is functioning properly.
    1. Turn the ignition key to the "Accessory" position.
      Warning: Do not start the vehicle.
    2. Check that the following are functioning properly:
      • accessory and warning lights and gauges
      • airbag supplemental restraint systems (SRS) warning lights, and
      • anti-lock braking system (ABS) warning lights.
  4. Locate the air intake to determine potential internal engine damage.
    If the damage ... Then determine the likelihood of ...
    was due to rising water water ingress.
    has occurred when the engine was running water being taken up through engine vacuum.
Parent topic: Water damaged vehicle policy