The Vehicle Sales Authority (VSA) in B.C. is warning consumers about buying vehicles that were damaged in flood waters.
The warning follows Hurricanes Harvey and Irma south of the border, which have unleashed record levels of rain.
The VSA said that over time, some of these damaged vehicles will make their way into B.C. and the rest of Canada, from those looking to profit from the disasters.
According to the VSA, the sellers will transfer the vehicle title through multiple states to hide the flood history before a final sale.
A vehicle is classified as flood-damaged if the water level reaches the bottom of the dashboard.
Reasons to Avoid Buying or Selling a Flood Vehicle in Error
• Vehicles imported and registered in Canada automatically get a behind-the-scenes check to identify the worst U.S. title. If a vehicle is determined to be flood-damaged, it will get a non-repairable (or D) status. Salvage vehicles are not insurable in B.C.
• You are required to know and disclose the history of the vehicles you sell. They must be road safe. You will most likely be required to take the vehicle back if you sell a flood vehicle, even if it was unintentional.
The VSA will be reminding consumers that the best protection is to buy from a licensed dealer.
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