The flood of last week has been confirmed to be the worst in southern Alberta’s history, and 26 communities remain under a state of emergency. BMO analystsBMO analysts have estimated damages could end up between $3-billion and $5-billion, and losses after insurance could reach $3.75-billion.
At Lane’s Insurance our Calgary office was, fortunately, unaffected. We feel incredibly lucky to have been able to remain at peak operating capacity for the past week, however, some of our downtown providers were without power for several days. We are working to see absolutely no disruption in our regular service, however, if your provider has not gotten back to you after a week of contacting them, please let us know so we can update you on their ability to respond.
It’s been a week of amazing sights – some practically unbelievable, but what has been great is watching people pull together to help each other out. We and know that although it may take awhile to rebuild, we certainly will do so, because we’re Albertans and we won’t quit. We offer sincere thanks to the many thousands who have been working non-stop to put Calgary, Banff, High River, Okotoks and the many other cities and towns affected and area back together as quickly as possible, and our thoughts are with you.
Calgary 2013 Flood Facts
- The Alberta Government is offering pre-paid debit cards to those who remain out of their homes. Those who qualify will receive $1,250 per adult and $500 per child. These should be distributed by end of week. Contact your local MLA or check the Alberta Government website to find out more.
- Floods are defined as an overflow of water onto land that is normally dry, and are considered to be one of the most frequent natural hazards in Canada. Caused by melting snow or heavy rainfalls, unfortunately some homeowners mistakenly believe that their home insurance policy covers them in the case of a flood. However, flood insurance does not exist in Canada, and you are not covered if water enters your home through a door or a window.
- Many Calgary home insurance policies will cover water damage, but you will need to talk to your insurance broker about the specific details of your coverage.
- Some businesses and commercial enterprises may have flood insurance included in their policies. Contact Lane’s or your provider to find out if your policy incudes this coverage.
- If you live in a home that has sustained flood damage, please do not enter if the water levels reached higher than your electrical outlets and if there is the smell of gas. Be very careful around sewage and do your best to not track debris to unaffected parts of your home.
- The City of Calgary is allowing homeowners to pump out uncontaminated water onto the streets.
Please take care of yourself, everyone, and do not hesitate to contact us with your questions and concerns. We’re here 24-hours a day to respond!
