Car claims

Car fire: what to do and what to gather

Get safe, then document everything before the vehicle is moved.

Move well away from the car and call 000. Don't go back to it, even for belongings.

Do this first

1. Get everyone well clear and call 000
2. Photograph the car and surroundings once it's safe
3. Get the fire brigade's or police report number
4. Tell your insurer, and don't have the car moved or scrapped yet Your insurer may want to inspect it first.

Who to tell

• Fire brigade and police: An official report is usually expected. Keep the number.
• Your insurer: Start your claim promptly.

What to gather

• Fire brigade or police report number. An independent record of the incident.
• Photos of the car and the scene. Shows the damage and where it happened.
• Proof of ownership. Registration papers or purchase documents.
• When you last used the car and anything unusual before the fire. Assessors ask how it started.
• All keys. May be requested.
• Modifications and accessories. Need to be declared and valued.
• Service history. Supports the car's condition.
• Finance details, if financed. The lender may need to be paid first.

Things that catch people out

• Don't dispose of or scrap the vehicle until your insurer says so.
• A fire's cause can affect the claim, so don't guess at it. Describe only what you saw.

General guidance only. It isn't your insurer's requirements or financial advice. Always check your policy documents and your insurer's instructions.