HALIFAX, NS, July 24, 2023 /CNW/ - In the aftermath of the flooding that has devastated parts of Nova Scotia, Insurance Bureau of Canada (IBC) is providing insurance information to affected residents and has deployed its Virtual Community Assistance Mobile Pavilion (V-CAMP).
Insurers serve as "second responders" in the recovery period after catastrophe strikes. IBC's V-CAMP is staffed with trained insurance industry personnel who are on hand at IBC's Consumer Information Centre at 1?844?2ask-IBC (1-844-227-5422) to help address consumers' general questions about home, business or vehicle insurance.
"Unfortunately, the flooding experienced in parts of Nova Scotia over the weekend has resulted in significant damage in a region that is still recovering from the destruction caused by recent wildfires. Our hearts go out to every resident and homeowner who has been affected by this severe weather event," said Graham Little, Interim Vice-President, Atlantic, IBC. "The priority right now is ensuring the safety of those affected. As rebuilding and recovery continues, rest assured that Canada's insurers are here to help. Anyone whose property or vehicle was damaged is encouraged to contact their insurance representative as soon as they are ready to start the claims process."
"Availability of overland flood insurance is limited in high-risk flood-prone areas, and sadly, many of the damaged properties will most likely be uninsured. This is why Canada must accelerate its important ongoing work to implement its national flood insurance program," said Craig Stewart, Vice-President, Climate Change and Federal Issues, IBC. "IBC and its members have been working with federal and provincial governments for several years to set up a program for affordable flood insurance. The implementation of the national flood insurance program is the single most important step Canada can take to better prepare for the impacts of climate change and ensure Canadians remain financially resilient to climate change."
IBC has provided important insurance information to help affected residents understand insurance coverage and the various stages of the of the claims process on its webpage, Nova Scotia Floods.
When it is safe, take these steps to begin the insurance claims process:
Once you have reported a loss, you will be assigned a claims adjuster by your insurance company. Given the number of people affected by the severe storm, it may take some time, but you will be contacted.
The claims adjuster will investigate the circumstances of the loss, examine the documents you provide and explain the claims process. Take notes and ask questions during these conversations.
Your insurance company might ask you to complete a proof of loss form to list the property and/or items that were damaged or destroyed, along with the corresponding value or cost of the damage or loss. Ask your insurance representative or claims adjuster to clarify anything you are unsure about.
Insurance Bureau of Canada is the national industry association representing Canada's private home, auto and business insurers. Its member companies make up the vast majority 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.
For media releases and more information, visit IBC's Media Centre at www.ibc.ca. Follow us on Twitter @IBC_Atlantic and 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.
SOURCE Insurance Bureau of Canada
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