SGI says people who have been evacuated due to the northern Saskatchewan wildfires may be eligible for some expenses under their home insurance policy.
Officials with the Crown corporation said all SGI Canada customers who have a personal property policy have mass evacuation coverage, subject to limitations in individual policies.
READ MORE: Progress made in wildfire fight in northern Sask., but evacuees to stay out
Coverage includes expenses for hotel or motel stays, for those staying with family or friends, and other expenses related to the evacuation, including meals and transportation costs, for up to 30 days.
Those affected are being asked to contact a broker for details on what expenses are covered.
“We encourage SGI Canada customers to contact their insurance broker, as they may be eligible for coverage of living expenses while displaced from their homes,” said Andrew Cartmell, president and CEO of Saskatchewan Government Insurance (SGI).
“Their insurance broker can provide details about the amount of coverage available.”
Receipts need to be submitted for any claims, subject to the policy’s deductible.
READ MORE: Wildfires and smoke continues to impact northern Saskatchewan communities
Cartmell also said that auto fund customers who have been evacuated and are unable to renew their driver’s licence or vehicle plate insurance don’t have to worry about their insurance lapsing.
“We will take care of our customers who, due to the evacuation, have been unable to renew their licence or plates,” Cartmell said.
“If a customer incurs a claim, customers will be able to renew their expired driver’s licence or vehicle plate and access auto fund coverage, subject to their deductible.”
SGI said it has staff on hand at evacuation centres in Saskatoon and Prince Albert to provide assistance to evacuees.
Over 2,300 people have been forced to leave four northeastern Saskatchewan communities due to wildfires.
The Saskatchewan government said the situation in the area remains stable and no community structures or critical infrastructure have been reported burned at last report.