Winter Storms and Home Insurance: What is Covered?

January 10th, 2014  |  Insurance

In light of the recent ice storm that left many Toronto residents without power for days during the holidays in December, and more winter storms in the forecast across Canada in the future, we thought it would be a good idea to review what is and is not covered by your insurance company should you lose power and have damage caused to your property.

What is covered? What is not covered?

Winter storms can do a lot of damage; there is no doubt about that. But, as a homeowner, you need to be aware of what damage is covered and what is not covered. You don’t want to leave yourself wondering, “am I covered” when a storm causes damage.

In general, here is what you need to know in case your home damaged by a winter storm:

• Most damage caused by snow or wind as part of a winter storm is covered.
• Damaged cause by falling trees and other airborne debris is also covered in most cases.
• Food loss may be covered as a result of a power outage.
• Accommodations may or may not be covered – it depends on the damage that was caused to your home and the reason why you left your home.
• Damage to your car will typically be covered if you have comprehensive coverage.

Remember that if you are not sure if something is covered, review your insurance policy and call your home insurance provider right away. Never assume that you have a particular type of coverage.

Were you impacted by the ice storm in Toronto? Were you aware of what was covered in your home insurance policy before the storm hit?