Before the storm hits, Insurance Bureau of Canada urges consumers in Atlantic
Canada to learn what their property insurance covers

HALIFAX, Sept. 1 /CNW/ - With gale force or even hurricane winds expected to hit Atlantic Canada in the coming days, Insurance Bureau of Canada (IBC) is reminding consumers in the region what is and what isn't covered by their property insurance.

"It's important that consumers know what to expect from their insurance," said Bill Adams, Vice-President, Atlantic, IBC. "Coverage and deductibles vary with individual policies, so it's good to know the details of your own insurance contract."

For example, most homeowner's and automobile policies will cover damage caused by windstorms, including things like broken windows. Sewer backup may be covered by special policy coverage, but water damage caused by overland flooding is usually not covered by insurance.

Or, if a tree falls on an insured house, shed or fence, the damage is usually covered, including the cost of cleaning up the tree debris. Damage to trees and shrubs that have not fallen on insured structures, however, is not covered. Most homeowner's and tenant's policies also cover the loss of freezer contents.

"In addition to knowing what's covered, homeowners should take reasonable steps to protect their property from damage," added Adams.

Inside, homeowners should ensure that door frames are securely anchored to the wall framing, and that doors are bolted shut. They should also cover window glass with protective film to prevent shattering, and lock the windows securely. Outside, they should remove all outdoor furniture, garbage cans and hanging or potted plants, and trim back trees and shrubs.

"Homeowners should also ensure they record the contact information for their insurance representative in a safe place," added Adams. "If they need to make a claim, knowing who to contact can make the process move along more quickly."

Hurricanes and tropical storms are not new to insurers in Atlantic Canada. Only last year, in 2009, tropical storm Danny caused upward of $14 million in damage throughout Atlantic Canada. And in 2003, Hurricane Juan caused $130 million in damage across Nova Scotia and PEI.

If consumers have questions about their insurance coverage, they are urged to speak to their own insurance representative, or to contact IBC's Atlantic Consumer Information Centre at 1-800-565-7189 x. 227 or 228, Monday to Friday, 8:30 a.m. to 4:30 p.m.

For more information about preparing for a disaster, including what to include in a 72 hour emergency kit, visit IBC's website at www.ibc.ca/en/Natural_Disasters/Disaster_Tips.asp, or any of the following websites:

• Government of Nova Scotia: http://emo.gov.ns.ca/
• Government of New Brunswick: http://www.gnb.ca/cnb/emo-omu/index-e.asp
• Government of Prince Edward Island: http://www.gov.pe.ca/jps/index.php3?number=1030226&lang=E
• Government of Newfoundland and Labrador: http://www.gov.nl.ca/fes/emo/

About Insurance Bureau of Canada

Insurance Bureau of Canada is the national industry association representing Canada's private home, car and business insurers. Its member companies represent 90% of the property and casualty (P&C) insurance market in Canada. The P&C insurance industry employs over 110,000 Canadians, pays more than $6 billion in taxes to the federal, provincial and municipal governments, and has a total premium base of $40 billion.

For further information:

Pete Karageorgos at 416-362-2031 ext. 4329