An industry representative is advising property owners in Edmonton to contact their insurance companies as soon as possible after recent heavy rain caused damage to buildings. The call comes after significant rainfall over the weekend led to water intrusion, flooding, and other issues for many structures in the region.
Immediate steps for property owners
The representative emphasized that prompt notification is critical to begin the claims process and mitigate further damage. Policyholders should document the damage with photos and videos, and take temporary measures to prevent additional harm, such as covering broken windows or drying out wet areas. However, they should not begin permanent repairs until an adjuster has assessed the damage.
“The key is to act quickly,” the industry representative said. “Contact your insurer right away to start the claims process and get guidance on next steps.”
Extent of the rainfall
Edmonton and surrounding areas experienced record-breaking rainfall over the weekend, with some locations receiving more than 100 millimetres. The downpour overwhelmed drainage systems and led to standing water in parking lots, basements, and commercial properties. The Community of Christ church in south Edmonton was among the affected sites, with water pooling in its parking lot.
Insurance coverage considerations
Most standard property insurance policies cover sudden and accidental water damage, such as from rain entering through a roof or window. However, coverage for sewer backup or overland flooding may require additional endorsements. The representative urged property owners to review their policies and ask their insurer about specific coverage details.
“Not all water damage is created equal,” the representative noted. “Understanding your policy can help avoid surprises during the claims process.”
Long-term impacts and prevention
Beyond immediate repairs, property owners should consider long-term measures to reduce future risk, such as improving drainage, sealing foundations, and installing backwater valves. The industry representative also recommended keeping an inventory of belongings and maintaining records of maintenance to streamline future claims.
