Heavy rains to hit Atlantic Canada: IBC issues flood prevention tips

HALIFAX, Sept. 30, 2015 /CNW/ - Environment Canada has issued a major storm warning for Atlantic Canada. The storm could bring over 100 millimetres of rain to parts of Atlantic Canada.

Insurance Bureau of Canada (IBC) warns that this volume of rain could result in localized and flash flooding. "Storms of this magnitude can have devastating impacts on communities and properties. Individuals and families can prepare by taking simple precautions before storms strike," said Amanda Dean, Vice-President, Atlantic.  

Preventative steps

• Assemble an emergency kit – flashlight and batteries, battery-operated radio, etc.
• Move valuable items from your basement to higher levels in your home.
• Clear and adjust eavestroughs and downspouts – if safe to do so – to direct water away from your home.
• Ask someone to check your property if you are away.

Coverage

• Damage to homes caused by rain and wind is usually covered. This includes damage caused by flying debris or falling branches or trees, or damage to your home and its contents when water enters through openings caused by high winds.
• Damage to mobile homes or trailers may be covered for wind damage. Policy wordings vary, so check with your insurance representative.
• Damage to vehicles from wind or water is usually covered if you have comprehensive or all-perils car insurance. This coverage isn't mandatory, so check your policy.
• Overland flooding (overflowing rivers or lakes) coverage is not offered under most home insurance policies.
• Water damage from a sewer backup may be covered by home insurance if the coverage was purchased as an add-on to the home insurance policy. Check with your insurance representative to see if you have this type of coverage and, if so, how much coverage you purchased.

Starting the insurance process

• Call your insurance representative and/or company.
  • Most insurers have 24-hour claims service. Be as detailed as possible when providing information.
  • For further information, contact IBC's Consumer Information Centre at 1-844-2ask-IBC (1-844-227-5422 ext. 228) or 902-240-6931 which will be operating around the clock.
• List all damaged or destroyed items.
  • If possible, assemble proofs of purchase, photos, receipts and warranties. Take photos of damage incurred and keep damaged items, unless they pose a health hazard.
• Keep all receipts related to cleanup and living expenses if you've been displaced.
  • Ask your insurance representative about what expenses you're entitled to and for what period of time.
• Review your policy to ensure you are familiar with any deductibles, coverage limits and replacement values. Talk to your insurance representative if anything is unclear.

About Insurance Bureau of Canada

Insurance Bureau of Canada (IBC) is the national industry association representing Canada's private home, auto and business insurers. Its member companies make up 90% of the property and casualty (P&C) insurance market in Canada. For more than 50 years, IBC has worked with governments across the country to help make affordable home, auto and business insurance available for all Canadians. IBC supports the vision of consumers and governments trusting, valuing and supporting the private P&C insurance industry. It champions key issues and helps educate consumers on how best to protect their homes, cars, businesses and properties.

P&C insurance touches the lives of nearly every Canadian and plays a critical role in keeping businesses safe and the Canadian economy strong. It employs more than 118,000 Canadians, pays $6.7 billion in taxes and has a total premium base of $48 billion.  

For media releases and more information, visit IBC's Media Centre at www.ibc.ca. Follow IBC on Twitter @InsuranceBureau and @IBC_Atlantic or like us on Facebook. If you have a question about home, auto or business insurance, contact IBC's Consumer Information Centre at 1-844-2ask-IBC.

If you require more information, IBC spokespeople are available to discuss the details in this media release.

SOURCE Insurance Bureau of Canada

To schedule an interview, please contact: Celyeste Power, Manager, Media Relations, 416-362-2031 ext. 4312, 647-384-9872, [email protected]