Severe storms hit Atlantic Canada: IBC ready to help

HALIFAX, Oct. 11, 2016 /CNW/ -  A tropical moisture system fuelled by Hurricane Matthew has brought severe storms to Atlantic Canada, particularly to eastern Nova Scotia, Cape Breton, and parts of Newfoundland and Labrador.  

Insurance Bureau of Canada (IBC) is ready to provide residents with the information they need if the storm has damaged their property. "Storms such as this can have a huge impact on our communities," said Amanda Dean, Vice-President, Atlantic, IBC. "That's why we want to help make the recovery process as straightforward as possible. If you have any questions, contact your insurance representative or call IBC's Consumer Information Centre at 1‑844‑2ask-IBC. We're here to help."

Are you covered?

• Wind damage to homes is typically covered. Damage caused by flying debris and falling branches or trees is usually covered as is damage caused by high winds creating openings in your home that allow water to enter suddenly and damage contents.
• Wind damage to mobile homes may be covered. Policy wordings vary so check with your insurance representative.
• Wind or water damage to cars may be covered if you have comprehensive or all-perils car insurance. This coverage is not mandatory so check your policy.
• Check with your insurance representative to review your policy coverage if you have experienced overland flooding.
• Damaged caused by sewer backup may be covered under your policy but check with your insurance representative to ensure you have the information specific to your policy.
• In certain circumstances, homeowners who are unable to live in their homes because of insured damage are most often covered for additional living expenses. Ask your insurance representative for information on this coverage as it pertains to your policy.
• Food spoilage caused by extended power outages may be covered. Check your policy to see if you're covered and whether a deductible applies.

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 $8.2 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 1‑844‑2ask-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: Andrew McGrath, Manager, Media Relations, Insurance Bureau of Canada, 416-362-2031 ext. 4312, [email protected]