The wildfires are once again impacting residents and homeowners in Nova Scotia and New Brunswick. As existing fires burn and new fire breakouts continue to surface, we all must come together and follow the directions provided by our civic and provincial government leaders. Many resources are available to stay informed, and we have shared some links at the bottom of this blog. Our priority is to help you be well-protected and informed on how to navigate your insurance needs.
Does Home Insurance Cover Damage from Wildfires?
Most home and business insurance policies cover fire damage. If residents have to leave their homes because of a mandatory evacuation order issued by civil authorities. In this case, most homeowners’ and tenants’ insurance policies will provide coverage for reasonable additional living expenses for a specified period of time. Your insurance representative can clarify the details of your policy.
Insurance During and After a Wildfire
Losing your home, car, or belongings is something no one can fully prepare for. Here are a few key steps that can help minimize losses and expedite your recovery after a claim:
- Before an emergency, ensure your home is properly insured. Contact your insurance company to confirm coverage, especially for additional living expenses during emergencies like wildfires.
- If your home or vehicles are affected, prioritize safety and move to a secure area. Contact your insurance company to start a claim and keep receipts for expenses related to the emergency.
- Your insurance company will provide a claims adjuster to guide you through the process. Ask them about covered living expenses, duration, and any coverage limits.
In situations like wildfire, preventing damage to your property is out of your control. However, by following these steps, you can navigate the aftermath of a loss more efficiently.
Making a Fire Insurance Claim
If you have experienced damage and need to make a claim, here are some key people and terms you can expect.
Claim Adjuster
Your Insurance Provider will assign a claims adjuster to manage your claim. This person is your primary contact throughout your claim. Their role is to investigate what happened, understand your insurance policy coverages, determine the best course of action, and manage the process of getting your vehicle or home repaired. Be sure to keep your adjuster’s name and phone number handy throughout your claim.
Damage Appraiser
A damage appraiser is likely to be assigned by your adjuster to evaluate the damages to your vehicle or property. Their role is to estimate the repairs required for the damages. With so many people affected by the wildfires, this will take time. So. it’s vital that you record and document the damage by making lists, taking photos, and keeping receipts.
Deductible
All insurance policies contain a deductible. This is the amount of the claim that you are responsible for paying. Generally, the insurance company will pay for claims above this deductible amount. The amount applicable to your claim is on your insurance documents. However, your Service Advisor can advise what deductible will apply to your claim. There are some auto claim cases where this deductible may be waived. This would be communicated to you by your assigned insurance adjuster.
We encourage you to visit our Insurance Claim Support webpage for more information about the claim process, claim support phone numbers for all our insurance policy providers, and answers to frequently asked questions. We understand that an insurance claim can be a stressful experience. Bauld Insurance is here to support you through your claim with answers to questions or hear your concerns. Please do not hesitate to contact us during regular business hours at 1-877-925-2285.
If your home, car or business was damaged due to a wildfire, you can find additional information on the Insurance Bureau of Canada website. You can also contact the Insurance Bureau of Canada’s Consumer Information Centre at 1-844-2ask-IBC (1-844-227-5422).
Additional Resources
Better Business Bureau – Home & Business Wildfire Resources
Traveller’s Canada – Wildfire Preparation
Fire | Firefighting | Fire Safety & Prevention | Halifax
Emergency Management | Fire | EMO | Halifax Regional Fire | Halifax
Emergency alerts and information – Government of Nova Scotia, Canada
Emergency Management Office – Government of Nova Scotia
Image details: Department of Natural Resources crew and aircraft are responding to a wildfire in the Susies Lake area of Halifax. Firefighters Dylan Mulder, left, and Elijah DeCoste, both of Jeddore, watch a water bomber make a pass over the wildfire. (Province of Nova Scotia)
