Claiming for Flood Damage: Step-by-Step Guide
Floodwater can damage your car's engine, electrical systems and interior. If your car is affected, knowing how to claim car insurance for flood damage can help you take the right steps.
However, flood damage is not automatically covered by standard car insurance. You generally need Special Perils cover, subject to your policy terms and conditions.
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Does car insurance cover flood damage?
Your coverage depends on your policy. Comprehensive insurance does not automatically include flood protection, while third-party policies generally do not cover flood damage to your own car.
| Insurance type | Flood damage to your car |
|---|---|
| Comprehensive without Special Perils | Generally not covered |
| Comprehensive with Special Perils | May be covered |
| Third-party, Fire and Theft | Generally not covered |
| Third-party only | Generally not covered |
Check your policy schedule to confirm your coverage. Read BJAK's guide to Special Perils cover to learn more.
How to claim car insurance for flood damage
Follow these steps if your car is affected by flooding. The exact process and documents required may vary by insurer or takaful operator.
Step 1: Do not start the engine
Do not start your car if it has been submerged in floodwater. Water may have entered the engine or electrical systems and caused damage. Stay safe and arrange towing if necessary. Have the car inspected before driving it again.
Step 2: Take photos and videos
If it is safe, take photos and videos of the flood damage before cleaning the car or moving it, where possible. Capture the water level, the car's exterior and interior, and the vehicle registration number. Keep the evidence for your claim.
Step 3: Contact your insurer
Inform your insurer or takaful operator about the flood damage. Ask about the claim process, towing arrangements, workshop requirements and documents needed. Check whether your car must go to a panel workshop or be inspected by an appointed adjuster before repairs begin.
Step 4: Check the reporting requirements
Ask your insurer whether a police report is required and confirm any reporting deadlines. Requirements can differ between insurers and claim types, so do not assume the same rules apply to every policy.
Step 5: Arrange towing and inspection
Follow your insurer's instructions for towing your car to the appropriate workshop. The insurer or its appointed adjuster may need to inspect the damage before repairs begin. Wait for the required inspection and approval before authorising major repairs.
Step 6: Prepare your claim documents
Your insurer will confirm the documents needed. These may include:
| Document | Purpose |
|---|---|
| Completed claim form | Records the claim |
| Identity card and driving licence | Verifies your details |
| Vehicle registration details | Identifies your car |
| Insurance policy schedule | Helps confirm coverage |
| Photos and videos | Documents the damage |
| Police report, if required | Records the incident |
| Repair estimate or inspection report, if requested | Helps assess the damage |
Some insurers may request additional documents. Submit the required paperwork through the insurer's specified claim channel and keep copies for your records.
Step 7: Wait for the claim decision
Your insurer will assess the damage, review your documents and determine whether the claim is covered. If approved, the insurer will explain the repair or settlement process. The payout and processing time depend on the policy, damage assessment and insurer's decision.
What flood-related costs can you claim?
Eligible flood damage may be covered under Special Perils, depending on your policy. Towing and cleaning expenses may also be claimable if your policy includes the relevant benefit.
| Cost | What to know |
|---|---|
| Engine, electrical and interior damage | Subject to policy coverage and assessment |
| Repairs and replacement parts | May be covered if approved |
| Towing and cleaning | Depends on the policy and selected benefits |
| Personal belongings inside the car | May not be covered under motor insurance |
For example, Takaful Malaysia's listed process allows eligible customers to submit documents for reimbursement of towing and cleaning expenses caused by water damage, up to the amount covered under their schedule. Check your own policy before assuming these costs are claimable.
Will a flood damage claim affect your NCD?
Your No Claim Discount (NCD) may be affected by a claim under your own policy. The outcome depends on the claim type and applicable policy terms.
Ask your insurer how the claim will affect your NCD. You can also use the BJAK NCD Checker to check your current discount.
What if your policy does not cover flood damage?
Without the relevant Special Perils cover, flood damage to your own car is generally not covered. You may need to pay for repairs yourself.
For future protection, compare car insurance on BJAK and check whether Special Perils is available for your vehicle. Remember, adding cover after a flood will not protect you against damage that has already happened.
Frequently asked questions about flood damage claims
Not automatically. Your policy generally needs the relevant Special Perils cover for eligible flood damage.
Requirements vary by insurer. Contact your insurer to confirm whether a report is needed and when it must be submitted.
Do not start the car if it was submerged or water may have entered the engine or electrical systems. Arrange towing and professional inspection first.
The timeframe depends on the damage, documents, inspection and insurer's assessment. Contact your insurer for updates.
It depends on the claim type and policy terms. Ask your insurer before proceeding.
No. New coverage will not protect against damage that has already happened.
Compare car insurance on BJAK
Flood repairs can be costly, so check your coverage before an incident happens. Review your Special Perils protection, applicable limits and policy exclusions. Compare car insurance on BJAK to explore available options for your vehicle and budget.