Media Releases 2008

May 8, 2008

Insurance Bureau of Canada reminds New Brunswickers affected by flooding to call insurance representative

Halifax, NS – Insurance Bureau of Canada (IBC) is reminding New Brunswickers affected by recent flooding to call their insurance representative as soon as possible to determine if they have a claim.

“It is too early to calculate insured damage from the flooding, but IBC is carefully monitoring the situation,” said Bill Adams, Acting Vice-President, Atlantic, IBC. “While we understand that residents want to return home as soon as possible, we’d like to stress that individuals take care to ensure it is safe to return home before they attempt to do so.”

The Government of New Brunswick recently announced a detailed recovery program for flood victims, including public safety measures that include water and electrical testing, and health and safety inspections to assess damage and determine what repairs are required for residents to return safely to their homes. The government will also be offering disaster financial assistance.

Homeowners with overland flooding are encouraged to call Service New Brunswick at 1-888-298-8555 or online at www.snb.ca/EMO. Additional information and advice on flood recovery is available from the New Brunswick Emergency Measures Organization at 1-800-561-4034 or online at www.gnb.ca/RiverWatch .

Generally, damage to homes resulting from overland flooding is not covered by insurance, but other types of damage may be covered. For example, water damage to cars is covered for individuals who have comprehensive coverage on their vehicle insurance policy. Also, many businesses may have coverage for flood damage which would include coverage for damage and loss of revenue.

Some homeowners may also find they have limited coverage. For instance, food spoilage due to power outage is covered by home insurance. Homeowners who purchased sewer back-up coverage may also have a claim.

“With water damage to homes, it’s a question of how the water entered the house,” said Adams. “Seepage through walls and windows is not covered, but damage from water that arises through the drain in the basement floor is covered.”

In addition to calling their insurance representatives, consumers are also invited to call IBC’s consumer information centre with questions and concerns, at 1-800-565-7189.

Insurance Bureau of Canada is the national industry association representing Canada’s private home, car and business insurers. Its member companies represent nearly 95% of the property and casualty (P&C) insurance market in Canada. The P&C industry employs over 104,000 Canadians, pays more than $6 billion in taxes to the federal and provincial governments, and has a total premium base of $35 billion.

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For more information contact: James Geuzebroek (416-362-2031 ext. 4364)