IBC deploys virtual Community Assistance Mobile Pavilion to assist in Southern Alberta
EDMONTON, AB, June 19, 2020 /CNW/ - Following the major hailstorm in Calgary and the surrounding area, Insurance Bureau of Canada (IBC) has deployed its virtual Community Assistance Mobile Pavilion (CAMP) to assist affected residents. IBC deploys CAMP to disaster sites that have significant insured damage. Canadians who are suddenly forced to cope with a damaging event – such as a windstorm, wildfire, ice storm, torrential rains or another disaster – can access insurance-related information through this national IBC program.
CAMP is staffed with trained insurance industry personnel who are on hand at IBC's Consumer Information Centre at 1-844-2ask-IBC (1-844-227-5422) to help address consumer questions.
"Following the devastating hailstorm, we want to ensure that consumers know we are here to help," said Celyeste Power, Vice-President, Western, IBC. "Severe weather events like these are not only costly but cause significant turmoil and stress for homeowners. IBC and insurers are ready to assist residents and businesses that have suffered damage."
To date, over 20,000 claims have been reported to insurers, and the insurance industry has activated response plans to assist policyholders who experienced damages from this severe storm.
What is covered?
IBC recommends consumers reach out to their insurance representative to understand their exact insurance coverage.
- Damage to homes or businesses caused by hail or wind is usually covered under most home and commercial insurance policies. This includes damage caused by flying debris or falling branches or trees, or damage to your home and contents from water entering through openings suddenly caused by wind or hail. Pre-existing damage is not covered.
- Damage to vehicles from wind, hail or water is usually covered if you have purchased comprehensive or all perils car insurance.
- Damage to mobile homes or trailers from hail or wind may be covered.
What should I do if the storm damaged my property?
Once it is safe to do so, consumers should:
- Assess the damage and contact their insurance representative. Most insurers have 24-hour claims services.
- Be as detailed as possible when providing information on damage.
- List all damaged items, assemble proofs of purchase/receipts or warranties, if possible, and take pictures of damaged property.
- Keep all receipts related to cleanup and other expenses resulting from the event.
How can I make a claim?
Consumers can take the following steps to begin the insurance claims process:
- Assess and document the potential damage. Taking photos can be helpful.
- Call your insurance representative to report the damage. Document who you spoke to and when you spoke to them.
- Keep notes and be as detailed as possible when providing information. Be sure to keep all receipts related to cleanup.
- If you need further information about home, business or car insurance, contact IBC's Consumer Information Centre at 1-844-2ask-IBC (1-844-227-5422) or [email protected].
"Even with COVID-19 and flood recovery underway in Northern Alberta, the insurance industry has representatives available to assist consumers in making a claim and assessing their damage," added Power. "Anyone with questions about insurance can contact their insurance representative or IBC's Consumer Information Centre. We're here to help."
For more information on how to protect property against severe weather, floods and other disasters, visit IBC's website.
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 128,000 Canadians, pays $9.4 billion in taxes and has a total premium base of $59.6 billion.
For media releases and more information, visit IBC's Media Centre at www.ibc.ca. Follow us on Twitter @InsuranceBureau 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: Vanessa Barrasa, Manager, Media Relations, 416-550-9062, [email protected]
Share this article