Natural disasters can strike at any time, often leaving homeowners in a state of uncertainty and distress. Calgary, with its unpredictable weather, is no stranger to various types of natural disasters, such as floods, hailstorms, and wildfires. While these events are hard to predict, knowing what to do if your home gets damaged can help you confidently navigate the situation.
This blog will walk you through what happens if your home is damaged by a natural disaster in Calgary, focusing on the steps to file a claim, the role of insurance, and how to protect your home for the future.
Flooding
Calgary floods are often triggered by heavy rainfall, rapid snowmelt, or overflow from nearby rivers like the Bow and Elbow. Flash floods, especially during spring or summer, can overwhelm drainage systems, allowing water to enter homes and damaging foundations, electrical systems, and personal belongings.
Hailstorms
Calgary is known for its intense summer thunderstorms, which can produce hailstones large enough to damage roofs, windows, and vehicles. While hailstorms are often brief, their impact on homes can be severe, requiring expensive repairs.
Wildfires
Although less common in the city, wildfires in the nearby foothills or forested areas can threaten homes in surrounding communities. Wildfires can spread quickly and leave homes vulnerable to smoke damage or destruction from the fire itself.
What Happens if Your Home Is Damaged?
When a natural disaster strikes, the first thing homeowners need to focus on is their safety. Here’s what to do if a natural disaster damages your home:
Ensure the Safety of Your Family
If you’re facing a dangerous situation like flooding or wildfire, evacuate immediately if instructed by authorities. Never prioritize personal property over the well-being of your loved ones.
Assess the Damage (Safely)
Once it is safe to return, assess the extent of the damage. Take photographs and make a list of affected areas. If flooding has occurred, avoid entering rooms with standing water to prevent electrical hazards.
Secure the Property
Secure your property to prevent further damage. This may involve boarding up windows or removing valuable items that might be damaged by additional water or debris. However, be cautious not to cause additional harm while trying to secure the property.
Does Insurance Cover Natural Disaster Damage?
While home insurance in Calgary typically covers damage caused by certain natural disasters, limitations exist. Here’s a breakdown of what most insurance policies do and do not cover:
Coverage
- Flood Damage: Standard home insurance policies often do not cover flood damage, especially in areas prone to flooding. However, you may be able to purchase additional flood coverage or a separate flood insurance policy.
- Storm Damage: Most policies will cover storm-related damage, including hail, wind, and water damage caused by storms. This can include damage to personal belongings, home’s roof, windows, and exterior.
- Wildfire Damage: Homeowners with standard fire coverage should be able to claim for wildfire damage, provided they have the proper coverage for structural damage and personal property.
Limitations
- Excluded Damages: While standard home insurance policies generally cover storm and wildfire damage, they often exclude certain types of damage. For example, earthquake damage is typically not included unless specifically added.
- Deductibles: Insurance will not cover the entire cost of repairs. Homeowners must pay a deductible before the insurer begins covering expenses. The deductible amount can vary based on the type of disaster.
Review Your Policy
It’s important to regularly review your home insurance policy to ensure you have adequate coverage, especially if you live in a high-risk area for certain natural disasters like flooding or wildfires.
Dealing with the Financial Aspect of the Claim
When a natural disaster damages your home, it’s important to understand how the financial side of your claim works:
Repair Costs
Insurance will help cover the cost of repairs, but you may still be responsible for your deductible. Additionally, if your coverage doesn’t fully cover the repair costs, you may have to pay out-of-pocket for any excess.
Deductibles
The deductible is the amount you pay before insurance kicks in. This amount can vary based on your policy and the type of disaster. For example, flood damage may have a higher deductible than storm damage.
Gaps in Coverage
If your policy doesn’t cover all the damage, you may need to explore other options, like personal savings or loans, to cover the remainder of the costs.
Conclusion
Natural disasters can be devastating, but knowing how to respond can help you navigate the situation. Being prepared is important, from understanding your insurance coverage to learning the steps to file a claim. Homeowners in Calgary should review their insurance policies regularly to ensure they’re adequately protected from natural disasters and take proactive steps to safeguard their homes for the future. Affordable Quotes Insurance offers tailored home insurance policies to fit your needs and protect your home in case of a natural disaster. Contact us today for a free quote and secure the protection you need.