As the water recedes the clean up begins, but many Southern Albertan’s are unsure of what is covered under their insurance policy. According to one local insurance appraiser most Alberta homeowners will be out of luck. That’s because not all flooding is covered under most insurance policies. “If a claim is accepted as a sewage back-up claim then everything is covered whether it’s tools , jewelery , clothing items that can be cleaned that are solid,” says Gary Kahn a Lethbridge Insurance appraiser.” Kahn says that water that comes in through doors and windows called over land flooding is not covered. But a sewage backup caused by flooding is usually covered, but homeowners need to double-check their polices. “If it’s only seepage or river flow then it’s up to the insurance company if they are going to cover it or not and if it’s not covered they will have to seek assistance from the provincial or federal government,” adds Kahn.
Restoration Companies in Lethbridge say they are pushed to the limits. Most of their staff is in Calgary and high river and they are asking Lethbridge residents to be patient. “We do want to get to everyone as quick as possible..we will get to you it’s a process. Our crews are in High river and Calgary,” says Dean Duff with Onside restoration. “Be patient and we will take care of you.” Insurance adjusters say right now flood victims need to document their items and take pictures.
Once the dust has settled, it will be up to the province and effected municipalities to essentially figure out what needs to be done and submit their expenses to the federal government, but that could take months before homeowners will have any answers
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