Jasper wildfire: How to navigate filing insurance claims
Global News
The process of filing insurance claims can often feel hard to navigate. Experts say the first step is simple: reach out to your broker.
While the extent of damage is unclear, the images and videos coming in from the wildfire destruction in Jasper, Alta., paint a bleak picture.
Evacuations were carried out before the fire reached the townsite and as more information becomes available over the coming days, many will be looking to navigate what comes next if their homes, properties or businesses have been hit.
But the process of filing insurance claims can often feel hard to navigate. Experts say the first step is simple: reach out to your broker.
“Standard home and business insurance does cover damage from wildfire. So, if you have insurance coverage, if you’ve been impacted, reach out to your insurance provider right away. Your insurance company is here to help you. This is what they plan for. This is what they’re here for,” said Rob de Pruis, national director of consumer and industry relations for the Insurance Bureau of Canada.
“These policies also cover additional living expenses. So if you’re evacuated, it covers things like hotel costs and other expenses that you may be incurring.”
Steven Harris, a licensed insurance broker and expert at LowestRates.ca, said the insurance company “will be able to share key information regarding next steps, how the damage will be evaluated, and what the homeowner’s options are, including what coverage may be available for hotels, food and transportation while the homeowner is unable to live at the property.”
Harris said evacuees should save any and all receipts for expenses they make while they are not living on their property so that they can claim those expenses.
Jasper, an iconic and scenic tourist destination, is home to many hotels, lodges, inns, restaurants and cafes.
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