This week’s ice storm has prompted numerous calls to insurance companies from homeowners seeking to make damage claims.
Basement flooding and water damage from ice damming have been a couple of big concerns.
Claire Fanning, CEO of Southeastern Mutual Insurance, says clients can take some preventative measures to try and prevent damage.
“Some of the things people can do is make sure they have a sump pump and that they have a battery back-up which is so important especially without power. Good batteries can last anywhere from 12 to 24 hours which for most power outages is plenty,” she notes.
After several days without power, Fanning says don’t throw out any food in the freezer before making a list and taking pictures first.
If you just lost power and decided to stay in a hotel, she says it’s unlikely any policy would cover that expense, “But If you had damage to your home from wind or water that made in unlivable or not safe to live in, then you would have coverage. For instance, if part of the roof was torn off, or if windows were broken and you were forced to leave your home.”
Fanning adds if your neighbour’s tree happens to fall on your vehicle or on your house, it’s up to you to file an insurance claim and not your neighbour.
