Suspicious fire delays insurance coverage for Regina family

REGINA – A local family whose house was destroyed in a fire said they have home insurance, but haven’t received any aid from their insurance provider.

However, it’s common practice for companies to hold off on coverage if there’s a chance the blaze was deliberately set.

A blaze broke out in the early morning of March 18^th in the 2000 block of Halifax Street.

Flames and smoke completely engulfed the century-old home, and destroyed it inside and out.

Anne Spur was asleep inside and said she woke up to find her house on fire.

“It was just smoke that I couldn’t walk through,” she explained. “I don’t know how I got out.”

The 80-year-old woman managed to escape with only minor injuries.

She and her son, Less Spur, have spent the last three weeks sorting through the debris to find anything salvageable and cleaning up the property.

“I lost everything. My mom lost everything,” Less explained. “And you lose it all in seconds.”

The pair claimed the home is covered by insurance, but said they haven’t received any compensation. They’ve been forced to spend their own money on hotels or stay with friends.

Fire crews said the blaze was sparked in a motor home parked beside the house, before quickly spreading.

Due to the home’s age it was unstable for crews to enter, and an investigation deemed the cause suspicious.

“If any sort of criminal activity led to the loss, then it could void a person’s insurance coverage,” explained Kelly Brinkworth with Saskatchewan Government Insurance.  “So during the investigation period SGI Canada would not provide coverage.”

If it turns out the homeowners are cleared of any criminal activity, they would be reimbursed. Anyone who finds themselves in a similar circumstance is encouraged to keep all their expense receipts.

Regina Police Service said the investigation into fire on Halifax Street is ongoing and is still considered suspicious.