In the wake of severe weather—whether it’s a flash flood, wildfire, or wind event—many Canadians are left not only assessing damage but also wondering what comes next. IBC offers on-the-ground and virtual support through CAMP – the Community Assistance Mobile Pavilion. Deployed to disaster-affected communities, CAMP serves as a mobile help centre where policyholders can speak directly with insurance experts, get answers to general questions, and find resources on claims and recovery. It’s a reminder that while severe weather can be devastating, you’re not on your own.
Here’s what every homeowner should know and do after the storm passes, whether you’re meeting CAMP staff in your community or navigating the next steps from home.
1. Start Documenting Everything
Once it’s safe to return to your property, begin documenting the damage thoroughly to support your insurance claim. Start by making a detailed inventory of all lost, damaged, or destroyed items, and include descriptions, estimated values, and purchase dates where possible. Back up your list with photos or videos of the damage, and gather supporting documents such as receipts, warranties, owner’s manuals, or any previous photos of the items before the event. Hold onto damaged belongings unless they pose a health risk, as your insurer may need to inspect them. Save all receipts related to emergency repairs, cleanup, or temporary accommodations—these may be reimbursable.
2. Report the Claim
Your insurance representative will work with you to get life back to normal as quickly as possible. The first step is to contact your representative or broker as soon as possible to file a claim. Once the claim is filed an adjuster will be assigned to assess the damage, walk you through timelines, and explain how your policy applies. You may be asked to complete a “proof of loss” form. This form lists all damaged or lost property or items with the estimated value or cost of the damage or loss – this is where documenting everything from the outset will come in handy.
3. Understand Your Coverage
Standard home insurance in Canada typically covers perils like wind, hail, fire, and lightning; however, damages from overland flooding, sewer backup, and earthquakes are optional and must be added to a standard insurance policy. In addition, you may be covered for Additional Living Expenses (ALE), which applies when your home becomes unfit for occupancy due to an insured peril or because a civil authority orders an evacuation. ALE reimburses you for the increased living costs, such as hotel stays, restaurant meals, and laundry (any expenses above your usual routine) and typically lasts until your home is habitable again or you reach your policy limit. To support your claim, save every receipt and invoice, from lodging to take‑out, and stay in touch with your adjuster. They’ll confirm what’s covered, explain your policy limits and the reimbursement process.
4. Starting the Repair Process
Once your insurer approves the claim, you can move forward with permanent repairs. You are free to choose your own contractor although insurers often provide a list of preferred vendors and may guarantee the work of the service providers they recommend. Ensure any contractor you hire is properly licensed and insured. Maintain your own inventory of communications, documents, contractor quotes, and invoices to avoid surprises and delays. After repairs begin, stay in contact with your adjuster to manage any scope changes in the estimate.
5. Stay Informed
Recovering from a severe weather event can be overwhelming, but knowing what steps to take, and what your insurance covers, can make the process smoother. If you have questions or need guidance, contact your insurance representative, refer to IBC’s severe weather insurance FAQs or call our Consumer Information Centre at 1-844-2ASK-IBC. The more informed you are, the better equipped you’ll be to navigate the road to recovery with confidence.
