What Ontario residents should know about storm damage insurance

Southern Ontario residents are assessing damage after a destructive storm on Wednesday, and insurance experts say the first step is to review your policy and confirm what is covered. Matt Hands of Ratehub.ca said most standard home insurance policies cover wind and hail damage, but flooding is often excluded unless extra protection, such as overland water coverage or sewer backup coverage, was added. For vehicles, comprehensive insurance may cover flood, hail, and wind damage, while basic policies may not. Experts also say homeowners should think carefully before filing a claim, since deductibles can make small repairs not worth the cost. They recommend documenting damage with photos, contacting the insurer quickly, and keeping receipts or proof of purchase. The Insurance Bureau of Canada says claims may take longer after major storms because many people are filing at once. The article also notes that insured losses from extreme weather have risen over the past decade, putting upward pressure on premiums.