Wildfire Situation in Alberta: IBC is here to help - safety is top priority

EDMONTON, May 21, 2019 /CNW/ - As wildfires force a number of Albertans to evacuate their homes, Insurance Bureau of Canada (IBC) is reaching out with information and advice.

"Our thoughts are with those whose lives have been disrupted by the wildfires. The top priority right now is the safety of those affected," said Celyeste Power, Vice-President, Western, IBC. "The insurance industry is here to help. Anyone with questions about their home, car or business insurance can call their insurance representative or IBC's Consumer Information Centre at 1-844-2ask-IBC (1-844-227-5422) or email [email protected]."

What insurance covers

Almost all 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, most homeowner's and tenant's insurance policies will provide coverage for reasonable additional living expenses for a specified period of time. Your insurance representative is at the ready to clarify the details of your policy.

The claims process

If you have been affected by the wildfires, when safe to do so:

• List all damaged or destroyed items. Taking photos can be helpful.
• Call your insurance representative and/or company.
• If possible, assemble proofs of purchase, photos, receipts and warranties. Keep damaged items unless they pose a health hazard.
• Keep all of the receipts related to cleanup.

If you have been displaced by the wildfires:

• Ask your insurance representative what living expenses you're entitled to and for what length of time.
• Keep the receipts for your living expenses.

Next steps

• Once you have reported a loss to your insurance representative, you will be assigned a claims adjuster. It may take some time, given the number of people affected by the wildfires, but the adjuster will contact you. 
• The claims adjuster will investigate the circumstances of your loss, examine the documents you provide and explain the process. Take notes during the conversations and ask questions if you need clarification.
• Your insurance company will ask you to complete a Proof of Loss form, to list the property and/or items that have been damaged or destroyed, with the corresponding value or cost of the damage or loss. You must sign and swear that the statements you make in the Proof of Loss form are true. Ask your insurance representative or claims adjuster to clarify anything you are unsure about.

To learn more about wildfires and wildfire safety, visit IBC's website.

About Insurance Bureau of Canada
Insurance Bureau of Canada (IBC) is the national industry association representing Canada's private home, auto and business insurers. Its member companies make up 90% 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.

P&C insurance touches the lives of nearly every Canadian and plays a critical role in keeping businesses safe and the Canadian economy strong. It employs more than 126,000 Canadians, pays $9 billion in taxes and has a total premium base of $54.7 billion.

For media releases and more information, visit IBC's Media Centre at www.ibc.ca. Follow us on Twitter @IBC_West or 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.

If you require more information, IBC spokespeople are available to discuss the details in this media release.

SOURCE Insurance Bureau of Canada