The Insurance Bureau of Canada (IBC) is poised to offer crucial support for businesses affected by wildfires in Jasper via its Community Assistance Mobile Pavilion (CAMP) beginning Friday, August 16.
IBC specialists will be on-site to address questions related to property, vehicle, and business insurance. Business owners will have the opportunity to interact with local insurers, adjusters, and IBC's skilled professionals to effectively manage their insurance claims.
Additional inquiries can be handled through IBC's Consumer Information Centre, available at 1-844-2ask-IBC or via email at [email protected].
Aaron Sutherland, vice-president of Pacific and Western at IBC, said: "The journey back for business owners can be particularly challenging given the emotional and financial toll of displacement."
He stressed the urgency of initiating the insurance claims process and adhering to local safety guidelines to prevent further risks.
Businesses are encouraged to keep abreast of ongoing wildfire activities and re-entry protocols by consulting resources available on the Parks Canada and the Municipality of Jasper websites.
Post-Disaster Actions: Initially, business owners must ensure their premises are safe to enter. It’s crucial to remember that all commercial property and tenant insurance policies cover fire damage. For vehicles, securing comprehensive or all perils coverage, which is optional, is vital and should be verified with insurance representatives.
Prior to cleanup efforts, documenting the extent of damage is essential for the claims process. Businesses facing utility disruptions post-disaster can find resources and FAQs on ATCO's website, which could prove invaluable.
Appliance Damage Management: Businesses that handle food services will find that damaged refrigerators or freezers and their contents are generally covered under most policies, including those situations involving accidental power outages. It’s important to record any spoiled items before disposal for insurance purposes. Consultation with insurers is advised to ensure compliance with local guidelines for appliance disposal.
Understanding the terms of business interruption insurance, particularly the indemnity period—whether limited or extended—is crucial for managing financial recovery effectively.
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