The Insurance Bureau of Canada (IBC) has issued a release to guide policyholders who have been impacted by the recent hailstorm event in southern Alberta.
The weather event saw hailstones the size of golf balls (or even baseballs) fall on properties and cars in Calgary, causing significant damage. According to estimates from Environment Canada, the hailstones fell at a speed of 80 to 100 km/h.
On top of the hailstones, the thunderstorm that struck the area also prompted severe flooding.
“Our thoughts are with those impacted by the hailstorm that hit Calgary this past weekend,” said IBC western vice-president Celyeste Power. “Severe weather events like these are not only costly but cause significant turmoil and stress for homeowners. IBC and insurers standby ready to assist consumers that have suffered damage.”
IBC recommended that all consumers affected by the hailstorm reach out to their insurance representatives to understand the extent of their coverage. Damage to homes or businesses caused by either hail or wind is typically covered under most home and/or commercial insurance policies, the bureau said. Mobile homes should also be similarly covered by insurance.
Meanwhile, damage caused by wind, hail, or water to vehicles is usually covered by comprehensive or all-perils auto insurance.
Consumers are advised to assess the damage their property or vehicles sustained once it is safe to do so. Most insurers have 24-hour claims services, so customers should not have issues contacting their representatives. IBC also recommends that consumers be as detailed as possible when providing damage information. Policyholders should also list all damaged items, keep proofs of purchase/receipts or warranties, and should document the damage through pictures.
While the ongoing COVID-19 pandemic and severe flooding in the region add an extra layer of risk to the hailstorm recovery process, Power said that insurers remain ready to help.
“Even with COVID-19 and flood recovery underway in Northern Alberta, the insurance industry will have representatives on the ground in the Calgary area to assist consumers in making a claim and assessing their damage,” the vice-president commented. “Anyone with questions about insurance can contact their insurance representative or IBC’s Consumer Information Centre. We’re here to help.”
