Selling a flood damage semi truck in Virginia
When selling a flood damage semi truck through a private party sale in Virginia, a bill of sale protects both the buyer and seller by documenting the transaction details and the vehicle's condition at the time of sale.
Legal considerations for flood damage vehicles in Virginia
Virginia Code § 46.2-624(C) requires insurance companies to report water damage claims of $3,500 or more to the DMV, after which the title is marked with a 'water damaged' indicator under subsection D. Sellers must disclose any known water damage history in the bill of sale. If the vehicle qualifies as a salvage vehicle under § 46.2-1600, additional disclosure and rebuilt-vehicle requirements under Chapter 16 apply.
Required disclosures
The bill of sale should state the nature and extent of any known water damage and reference any 'water damaged' indicator on the title. If the insurer paid $3,500 or more, the title will carry a DMV-placed water damaged indicator under § 46.2-624(D). Sellers should disclose all known water damage regardless of whether a title brand exists.
Buyer warning
A Virginia title with a 'water damaged' indicator means an insurer paid $3,500 or more on a water damage claim and reported it to the DMV. Lesser water damage may not appear on the title. Before purchase, request a Prospective Purchaser Inquiry (PPI) from the Virginia DMV or check NMVTIS at vehiclehistory.gov for flood history reported by other states.