Released on May 3, 2019
The Financial and Consumer Affairs Authority (FCAA) wants you to understand what your insurance policy covers so that you are protected in case of an extreme weather event. Have you considered whether your home and car are protected from hail and wind damage when summer rolls around?“Severe weather and natural disasters are sometimes an unfortunate reality in our spring and summer months,” FCAA Insurance and Real Estate Division Director Jan Seibel said. “However, being prepared is key. It’s important to obtain adequate insurance for your property in case it is damaged by severe weather.”
Here are some severe weather tips to consider:
- Know what’s covered – Read your policy, find out what types of damage are covered and what types are not. Certain types of damages may not be covered in a standard home policy. For instance, overland flooding usually requires a separate endorsement added to the standard policy
- Contact an insurance company, agent or broker if you have any questions – They will be able to help you find the coverage that suits your needs and protects your property in the event of severe weather damage.
- Be prepared in case of a severe weather emergency by making a plan –
- Have a home inventory of your belongings including an estimate of the value of each item. If your home or contents are damaged, you will be required to prove your loss. Before damage occurs, take photos of your belongings and store the files or pictures in a safe place for future reference.
- Have emergency supply kits for your home and vehicle. This should include items such as a flashlight, food and water, first-aid kit, blankets and extra clothing.
- Have an evacuation plan. It’s important to be prepared and establish designated meeting places for your family, alternate routes out of your area, means of transportation and arrangements for pets.
- Take precautions around your home. Secure loose items that may be damaged or cause damage in strong winds. Keep gutters and downspouts clear to keep water moving away from your home.
- For more tips visit:
The Provincial Disaster Assistance Program (PDAP) helps Saskatchewan residents and municipalities recover from natural disasters. Once a community has applied and been approved as being impacted by a natural disaster, PDAP will assist with the costs to replace or repair uninsurable essential items. PDAP will also assist with costs for cleanup from the disaster and for temporary relocation if required. PDAP is not intended to compete with private insurers or to provide full replacement coverage. Reimbursement of costs from PDAP are based on the depreciated or pre-disaster condition on essential items and prescribed rates are established for cleanup and other disaster-related costs.
For more information about PDAP, visit https://www.saskatchewan.ca/residents/environment-public-health-and-safety/access-funding-through-the-provincial-disaster-assistance-program.
For more information and tips about insurance, visit http://fcaa.gov.sk.ca/consumers-investors-pension-plan-members/consumers/insurance-consumers/insurance-basics.
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For more information, contact:
Shannon McMillan
Financial and Consumer Affairs Authority
Regina
Phone: 306-798-4160
Email: shannon.mcmillan@gov.sk.ca