After storm surge
During Hurricane Ian, the National Hurricane Center found maximum storm surge inundation of 6 to 9 feet above ground level in Cape Coral and nearby communities. Salt water is hard on vehicles. This guide covers what to do with a flood-damaged car, the Florida rules that protect you at the repair shop, and where to get help with a claim.
Step 1: A flooded car
- Do not start it. Water in the engine can destroy it, and salt water in the electrical system can cause fires.
- Photograph the waterline inside and outside the car.
- Call your insurer and report the claim. Comprehensive coverage usually covers flood damage.
- Have it towed to a shop or to where your insurer directs.
Step 2: Know Florida's repair rules
Florida requires anyone paid to repair other people's motor vehicles to register with the Department of Agriculture and Consumer Services. A shop may not exceed its written estimate by more than $10 or 10 percent, whichever is greater, up to $50, without the customer's consent. The invoice must itemize labor and parts, identify any used or rebuilt parts, state what is guaranteed and show the shop's registration number. Ask for a written estimate and check the registration number on the invoice.
Step 3: Repair or total loss?
An insurer may declare a car that sat in salt water a total loss. Ask your insurer how the decision is made and how the value is calculated.
Step 4: Buying a replacement
After big floods, flood-damaged cars may be resold. Have any used car inspected and check its history for flood damage.
Step 5: Free claim help
Florida's Division of Consumer Services, in the Department of Financial Services, advocates for policyholders free of charge through its Insurance Consumer Helpline, 1-877-693-5236.
Step 6: Before the next storm
- Move cars to higher ground or a parking garage when surge is forecast.
- Keep insurance cards and the title in a waterproof folder.
- Photograph the car's condition each hurricane season.
Step 7: Picking up a repaired car
Compare the invoice with the written estimate, check the registration number and the guarantee statement, ask about each charge and test drive.
Records
Keep estimates, invoices, photos and insurance papers together.
Understanding the estimate
Ask the shop to show you the damaged parts and explain each repair. For flood damage, ask which electrical and safety systems were checked. A second estimate is reasonable for a large repair.
Salt air and everyday wear
Even without a flood, salt air near the canals and the Gulf speeds corrosion on brake lines, exhaust parts and the underbody. Rinse the underside of the car with fresh water now and then, and ask the shop to look for corrosion at each service visit.