Igor is gone. What now?

If you were one of the many people severely affected by Hurricane Igor, you will have questions. Here are some tips on insurance coverage and the claims process as recovery efforts continue.

Talk to your broker or agent

Coverage and deductibles vary with individual policies, so it is essential that you speak with your insurance representative to determine exactly what your policy covers.

Most homeowner policies cover:

• wind-related damage caused by the storm
• damage to your house, shed or fence caused by fallen trees, including the cost of cleaning up the tree debris
• damage from water entering broken windows or a damaged roof caused by the hurricane
• broken windows and loss of freezer contents in the event of an extended power outage

While home insurance polices in Canada do not cover flooding, water damage caused by sewer backup will be covered if it is provided for in your policy.

Most automobile policies (if you have comprehensive insurance) cover:

• flood damage to your car
• wind-related damage, such as a broken windshield caused by debris

Tips for easing the claims process

• As you can appreciate, insurers are dealing with a large number of claims and have even brought in out-of-province adjusters to help. Usually, urgent claims involving the most extensive damage will be addressed first. But rest assured that once you have reported a loss, your information is in the system and an adjuster will be assigned to your claim. It may take some time, but you will be contacted.
• Start taking pictures or video of the damage to your property.
• If it’s safe to do so, start cleaning up and drying things out, and protect your property from further damage (board up holes and move items out of wet basements, etc.)
• Keep all receipts for expenses related to your cleanup and living expenses if you’ve been temporarily displaced due to damage to your home.

Concerned about flood damage? Don't have insurance?

If you've experienced flood damage, or if you don't have insurance, you may be able to get help through the government Disaster Financial Assistance program.

Contact Fire and Emergency Services - Newfoundland and Labrador at 1- 888-395-5611 or visit www.gov.nl.ca for more information.

Questions? We're here to help.

Call IBC's Consumer Information Centre, open 24/7: 1-800-565-7189 ext 227 or 228.

IBC MEMBER COMPANIES TOLL-FREE TELEPHONE INFORMATION FOR ATLANTIC CANADA: