Living in Alberta comes with its share of interesting challenges. We have wildly unpredictable weather, as evidenced by our inauspicious claim to six of 10 of the worst insurance disasters in the country. We also have a growing problem with vehicle crime, with us posting the highest per capita rate of auto theft in the country. Then there are wildfires, hail, and just plain bad luck to add to the mix.
As an insurance broker who has been working closely with Albertans for decades, we see the same patterns every year. That’s why we are your best bet for helping to keep you from having to make a claim — and also getting you the very best rates for excellent coverage.
The same insurance claims pop up time and again, and many of them are actually very preventable.
- Hail damage to homes and vehicles
Alberta is often called the “hail capital of Canada.” We are home to the infamous Hailstorm Alley, which runs from High River in southern Alberta, north through Calgary, through Red Deer to Lacombe, and then west to Rocky Mountain House. Calgary and surrounding areas are frequently battered during storm season, with Calgary’s storm of Aug. 5, 2024, resulting in nearly 130,000 insurance claims and $2.8 billion in damages to make it the costliest hailstorm in Canadian history and the most expensive weather event of 2024.
How to avoid hail damage:
- Park smart: If hail is in the forecast, move your vehicle into a garage or covered area whenever possible. If you don’t have a covered area, try placing blankets over your vehicle and use your floor mats for your windshields.
- Reinforce your roof: Consider installing impact-resistant roofing materials on your home. Some home insurance companies even offer discounts for hail-resistant upgrades. Remember, if your roof is in poor shape, your home insurance company has the right to refuse a claim for hail damage.
2. Water damage (flooding and sewer backups)
Floods — whether from heavy rain, spring runoff, or sewer backups — are one of the fastest-growing causes of property damage in Alberta. The 2013 Calgary floods were a sharp reminder of how quickly water can destroy property and possessions.
How to avoid flood damage:
- Install a backwater valve: This simple device can prevent sewage from backing up into your home during heavy rains.
- Maintain proper grading: Make sure the ground around your home slopes away from your foundation.
- Know your flood risk: Check flood maps and talk to your broker about adding overland flood coverage if needed. This coverage is a separate add-on that isn’t automatically included in most standard home policies.
3. Automobile collisions
From winter whiteouts on the QEII Highway to rush-hour fender benders in Edmonton, auto accidents are an everyday reality. Alberta’s severe winters and often (very) long commutes only increase the risk.
How to avoid an auto accident:
- Drive defensively: Defensive driving involves constantly scanning for potential dangers, slowing down in poor conditions and always leaving plenty of space between vehicles.
- Winter tires are worth it: There is a lot of science behind winter tires. Installing winter tires can significantly reduce your chances of accidents and some insurers even offer discounts if you have them.
- Check your coverage: Many drivers don’t realize that they are not covered for accidents if they do not have collision coverage. In addition, you may not be covered for a hit-and-run without collision coverage. Also inquire about accident forgiveness coverage if it’s available — it could save you from premium hikes after a first-time collision. An insurance broker such as us at Lane’s can help you figure out what your coverage needs should be.
4. Fire damage
Every Albertan knows that spring and summer equal wildfire season in Alberta. The devastating fires in Jasper last year resulted in more than $7 billion in insured losses and over 250,000 in home insurance claims. Our dry climate, combined with flammable home building materials, make urban house fires not uncommon either. Wildfire season, particularly in the summer months, can create sudden emergencies that leave very little time to act.
How to avoid a house fire:
- Brush up on “Firesmart” landscaping techniques: Tips include keeping trees at least 10 feet apart and pruned well.
- Check your smoke detectors: Regularly test smoke detectors and consider installing a home sprinkler system if feasible. If you have any concerns about your smoke detectors, local fire stations will often assist.
- Prepare an emergency plan: Have a “go bag” ready for your family and practise an evacuation plan in case you need to get out quickly.
- Theft and break-ins
While Alberta cities are generally safe, theft and burglaries still occur, particularly in urban areas.
How to avoid being robbed:
- Invest in a security system: Alarm systems, security cameras, and smart doorbells can deter thieves and also help lower your insurance premiums. Many home internet providers are now offering wireless systems as an additional service that can be packaged with your others.
- Secure entry points: Upgrade the locks on your doors and windows and install deadbolts.
- Avoid advertising vacations: Don’t broadcast travel plans on social media until after you’ve returned. You never know who is looking.
- Don’t risk it: Keep car doors locked at all times.
- Shut it off: Never leave your vehicle running (even when it’s cold out).
- Tuck it away: Park in well-lit areas and do not leave any valuables in sight.
Guide for making a claim
If you think you need to make a home or auto insurance claim, take the following steps:
- Identify all the damage and take mitigation measures to ensure no further damage occurs if safe to do so.
- Take a number of photos of the damage from several different angles.
- Call your insurance broker or provider as soon as you are able.
- Keep all the receipts for any repairs or cleanup costs.
Coverage for the modern world
Lane’s Insurance is a leading Alberta-based brokerage that works with the province’s most trusted carriers to keep you covered at the most affordable rates.
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