It's hail season. Are you prepared?

June marks the beginning of hail season, which generally runs until September in Alberta and the Prairie provinces. Severe storms with hail, lightning, strong winds and heavy rain are unpredictable and can strike quickly with devastating results. Insurance Bureau of Canada (IBC) reminds us to be aware and take action to prepare for potentially damaging storms.

“It’s a fact that the frequency, severity and cost of severe weather are on the rise all across Canada,” says Bill Adams, IBC Vice President, Western and Pacific. “We’re certainly seeing this in Alberta and the Prairie provinces where homes are being damaged more frequently by hail, heavy rainfall and strong winds, which makes it critical for people to know how to protect themselves and their property,” he adds.

Hailstorms have had a serious impact in Alberta, in particular, because of its geography and weather patterns. The Calgary hailstorm on June 13, 2020 resulted in approximately 70,000 claims and over $1.3 billion in insured damages. The majority of the insured damages was to personal property and vehicles, with a smaller percentage to commercial property. It was the costliest hailstorm in Canadian history and the fourth costliest natural disaster of all time.

If you own a car and/or home, talk to your insurance broker to ensure your policies are up to date and that they will serve your specific needs if a severe storm were to strike.

• Damage to homes caused by hail or wind is usually covered under home insurance policies. This includes damage caused by flying debris or falling branches or trees, or damage to your home and contents from water entering through openings caused by wind or hail. 
• Damage to vehicles from wind, hail or water is usually covered if you have purchased comprehensive or all perils auto insurance. Check your policy, as this coverage isn't mandatory.
• Damage to mobile homes or trailers from hail or wind may be covered. Polices vary, so it’s best to check with your broker to confirm your coverage.

Tips for starting the claims process:

• Contact your insurance broker to report your claim. Be as detailed as possible when providing information. You may also submit a home or auto claim online.
• List all damaged or destroyed items. If possible, gather your proofs of purchase, photos, receipts and warranties. Take photos of damage and keep the damaged items - unless they pose a health hazard. Wawanesa's Personal Property Inventory form is a great resource to guide you through this process.
• Keep all receipts related to cleanup and living expenses if you’ve been displaced. Ask your insurance broker which expenses you’re entitled to and for what period of time.
• Review your policy to ensure you are familiar with specified deductibles, coverage limits and replacement values. Talk to your broker if anything is unclear.

Source: Insurance Bureau of Canada