IBC provides consumers information and advice following Newfoundland and Labrador windstorm

Insurance Bureau of Canada (CNW Group/Insurance Bureau of Canada)

HALIFAX, March 14, 2017 /CNW/ - Following the hurricane-force winds that recently hit Newfoundland and Labrador, Insurance Bureau of Canada (IBC) is providing information and advice to affected customers as they begin to survey the damage.

"Though residents braved the storm in true Newfoundlander and Labradorian style, thousands were affected and property damage was extensive," said Amanda Dean, Vice-President, Atlantic, IBC. "As the cleanup begins, insurance companies in the region are working hard to bring personnel in to help communities and residents get back to normal as quickly as possible."

"Consumers should contact their insurance representatives as soon as possible to report damage," added Dean. "Coverage and deductibles will vary, so it is essential that affected residents speak to their insurers to determine exactly what their policy covers."

If you have general questions, contact IBC's Consumer Information Centre at 1‑844-2-ASK-IBC ext. 228 (1-844-227-5422 ext. 228) or 902-240-6931. We're here to help.

Are you covered?

• Damage to homes caused by wind is typically covered by home insurance. This includes damage caused by flying debris or falling branches or trees, or damage to your home and its contents when water or snow enters through openings suddenly caused by high winds or flying debris.
• Damage to mobile homes or trailers from wind may be covered.
• Damage to vehicles from wind is usually covered if you have comprehensive or all perils coverage auto insurance. This coverage is not mandatory. Check your policy.
• Damage caused by sudden and accidental bursting of plumbing pipes is covered by most residential policies, though the cost of repairing the pipes is not. However, water damage may not be covered if it is caused by the freezing of pipes. Check with your insurance representative for the requirements and conditions in your policy.
• Food spoilage resulting from power interruptions may be covered. Check your policy to see if you're covered, and whether a deductible applies.
• In certain circumstances, homeowners, who are unable to live in their homes because of insured damage, are entitled to the recovery of additional living expenses. Ask your insurance representative for more information.
• Keep in mind that policy wordings vary, so it's best to check with your own insurance representative regarding all of the above.

Starting the claims process

• When safe to do so, assess and document potential damage. Take photographs and keep all receipts.
• Call your insurance representative and/or company to report damage or losses.
• Be as detailed as possible when providing information.

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 120,000 Canadians, pays $9 billion in taxes and has a total premium base of $49 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 1-844-2-ASK-IBC ext. 228.

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: Andrew McGrath, Manager, Media Relations, 416-362-2031 ext. 4312, [email protected]

Related Links

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