Your time is valuable, and we have new options available. Our customers can access their policies online to make self-service changes via HUB MyAccount, or contact us via alternate methods here.
Whether it’s a wildfire or severe flooding as was recently experienced in Nova Scotia, picking up the pieces after a disaster isn’t easy.
Your insurer will work closely with you to help you get your life – and your property – back on track. Understanding how the claim process works before you need to make one can help reduce stress in the aftermath of damage or loss.
The Insurance Bureau of Canada (IBC) offers these guidelines to property owners as to what you can expect:
If it’s safe to do so, policyholders are obligated to protect their property from further damage. For example, that may include boarding up windows or placing tarps over damaged roofs to protect against rain or snow.
Keep in mind if it is unsafe to do temporary repairs yourself, your adjuster may be able to provide names of contractors to help mitigate further damage. Always be sure to listen to the directives of all local emergency officials.
Severe weather events
IBC notes that during major weather events, insurance companies may initiate temporary limitations on the sale of new policies in areas under imminent threat. Only those in areas that are under imminent threat are commonly subject to temporary restrictions or limitations on the sale of new coverage.
Consumers who want to change their coverage levels during such events, for example a windstorm threat, may face difficulties. Many policies include a ‘Declaration of Emergency Endorsement,’ which can extend the expiration date of policies when an emergency is declared by government, and your insurer cannot provide your renewal. This ensures the existing policy stays in force, typically for another 120 days. The purpose of this insurance is to protect you from unforeseen events. It is important to have coverage year-round and not wait for events to occur before trying to secure insurance protection for your home and property.
Some examples of the limitations/restrictions that may be put in place for areas facing a threat from a weather event include:
Since these restrictions are temporary, they will ease as the threat decreases. If you have questions about your policy or want to adjust your coverage limits, don’t wait until the event occurs since you may not be able to make the changes until the threat has passed.
Making a claim
IBC offers some good advice on the claims process including:
If you’ve just experienced damage due to a severe weather event and have questions, you can also contact IBC’s Consumer Information Centre.
RELATED READING: