IBC offers advice for brokers and consumers in windstorm-affected NL

The Insurance Bureau of Canada (IBC) released a statement yesterday following the brutal windstorm that ripped through Newfoundland and Labrador, urging brokers and consumers to work together in assessing the damage.

“Though residents braved the storm in true Newfoundlander and Labradorian style, thousands were affected and property damage was extensive,” said IBC Atlantic vice-president Amanda Dean. “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.”

Dean added that brokers should work with their clients so that the latter group can better understand what it can claim damage on.

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

The IBC listed several tips for brokers to share with their clients:

• Damage to homes caused by wind is typically covered by home insurance – this includes damage caused by flying debris or falling branches or trees , as well as damage caused by water or snow entering through an opening formed 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 the policyholder has comprehensive or all-perils coverage auto insurance.
• 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; damage caused by freezing pipes is not typically covered.
• Food spoilage resulting from power interruptions may be covered, depending on the policy.
• Some policyholders are entitled to the recovery of additional living expenses if they are unable to live in their homes.

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