In Canada, wildfires are common between May and September, and can even be earlier in some parts of the country. Last year the wildfires caused mass amounts of devastation in some parts of Canada and it’s expected to be another challenging summer this year.
Home insurance is usually the last thing on people’s minds when extreme events occur, but it is important to think about. Knowing what coverage you have and what can help when you need to file a claim can make a big difference.
Does home insurance cover fire damage?
Most home and business insurance policies cover damage caused by fire, even if the fire began on a neighbouring property. It excludes coverage if the fires were started intentionally by the policyholder or a member of the household.
Standard homeowners/condos/tenants insurance policies typically provides coverage for smoke damage resulting from covered perils such as fire. If smoke damage occurs as a result of a covered event, such as a fire within the home or neighbouring property, the policy will include provisions for repair or replacement of damaged property, as well as cleanup and restoration expenses.
What about wildfires?
Almost every insurance policy across Canada covers wildfire risk, and coverage is not limited in any way. Fires are still considered an accident in this country and predictions cannot be made as to what homes will be affected. Even though most fires are man-made it will not affect policy coverage at all, no matter how it starts.
What is mass evacuation coverage?
Mass evacuation coverage offers financial protection when a government-mandated evacuation forces you to temporarily move out of your home due to a natural or man-made disaster. They can include wildfires, floods, rainstorms, nuclear incidents, or other emergencies, where you have been temporarily displaced.
