Who pays for the damage to cars and motorcycles damaged by flooding?
Last December, there were many problems due to storms in Lisbon.
We have had several claims where water flooded garages, leaving cars floating due to flooding. We received many calls from condominium managers concerned about the damage suffered by residents to their cars and belongings (usually in garages), and we tried to clarify the situation. As this is a relevant topic, we decided to create this article in a question-and-answer format to make it easier to read.
Does condominium insurance cover damage to vehicles? Why?
Condominium insurance covers damage to the walls of the property in its entirety or in some parts. In this case, the affected items were the fillings, so this insurance should be activated.
When condominium owners' cars are affected by flooding, what insurance can be claimed?
The insurance policies that can be activated are auto insurance —coverage for natural phenomena. They can also be insured under individual contents insurance (cars can be insured under garage contents insurance)—flood coverage.
Why can't the cross-liability of condominium insurance be invoked?
Because the condominium is not responsible for flooding, it is the storm. This coverage can only be activated if the condominium is responsible, such as in the case of a burst in the building's common plumbing. This coverage is not responsible for damage for which the condominium is not responsible. In these cases, we recommend checking whether your vehicle is insured through individual contents insurance or car insurance.