Property Claim Services Canada estimates Newfoundlanders have made insurance claims totalling more than $65 million for damaged cars, homes, businesses and other property in the wake of Hurricane Igor. And that doesn't include the damage caused by flooding, which isn't included in Canadian home insurance packages.
"The $65-million estimate in insured losses really drives home the incredible extent of the destruction to homes and property. It's devastating for those who have been affected," said Bill Adams, vice-president Atlantic for the Insurance Bureau of Canada. He said it may take extra time to process the claims due to the volume.
"Many insurance companies brought in extra staff, some from out of province, to start processing claims immediately and to answer questions 24 hours a day. They put adjusters on the road, and some even flew staff in by helicopter if the roads were washed out."
Dozens of communities were left isolated as the hurricane washed out roads and knocked out bridges. Many people were forced from flooded homes. Newfoundlanders seeking aid from the provincial Disaster Assistance Program are still waiting. Municipal Affairs Minister Kevin O'Brien said those claims would be processed sometime this month.
The Canadian Red Cross, meanwhile, is helping those whose costs won't be covered by government aid or insurance claims. They delivered another batch of building supplies to people with damaged homes Tuesday.
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