Photo: File photo
By: Nicole Goldsworthy
Local Journalism Initiative Reporter
SaskToday.ca
As northeastern Saskatchewan homeowners begin cleaning up after recent severe storms, insurance experts say the actions taken in the first hours after discovering damage can make a significant difference in the claims process.
John Russell, senior vice-president of claims for Westland Insurance Group Ltd., said the most important step homeowners can take actually begins before a storm ever arrives.
“The best time to understand your insurance coverage is before you need it,” Russell said. “Review your policy regularly, ask questions about what is and isn’t covered, and make sure your coverage reflects your home’s current needs and risks. Many surprises can be avoided by having those conversations before a loss occurs.”
Russell said one of the biggest challenges following the recent storms has been the widespread nature of the damage across multiple communities, rather than isolated incidents.
“What stands out is the widespread nature of the damage,” he said. “When a severe storm impacts multiple communities at once, many property owners are dealing with damaged roofs, siding, windows, vehicles and outbuildings simultaneously. From a claims perspective, the widespread nature of the damage also creates significant demand for contractors, roofers and restoration services, which can extend repair timelines compared to more localized severe weather events.”
He said the most common claims following severe wind, hail and tornadoes involve roofs, siding, windows, fences, outbuildings and vehicles. Water damage can also develop if wind or hail compromises a home’s exterior.
Russell noted that storm damage is not always immediately obvious.
“One trend we often see after major storms is that some damage is not immediately visible,” he said. “A homeowner may notice a few missing shingles or cosmetic damage, but a professional inspection can reveal additional issues that require attention. That’s why it’s important to document damage and report concerns to your insurer promptly.”
Russell recommends homeowners follow three key steps after discovering storm damage:
Ensure everyone is safe and prevent further damage if it can be done safely.
Take photos and videos before beginning cleanup.
Contact your insurer or insurance broker as soon as possible to report the damage and discuss next steps.
He said homeowners sometimes unintentionally make mistakes that complicate their claims.
“One common mistake is beginning repairs before documenting the damage,” Russell said. “Another is disposing of damaged items too quickly. We also see situations where homeowners delay reporting a claim because they’re unsure whether the damage is significant enough. It’s always better to contact your insurer or broker and discuss your options early.”
Russell encouraged homeowners to thoroughly document every aspect of the damage.
“It’s difficult to have too much documentation,” he said. “Homeowners should take wide-angle photos that show the overall damage as well as close-up images of specific areas. Videos can also help capture the scope of the loss. If additional damage is discovered later, document that as well.”
He also recommends keeping records of temporary repairs, contractor estimates, receipts and all communication related to the claim.
If families are displaced from their homes, Russell said they should save receipts for reasonable living expenses, including accommodation, meals, transportation, laundry and other necessary day-to-day costs, as some may be eligible for reimbursement depending on the policy.
Russell cautioned homeowners against assuming every storm-related expense will automatically be covered.
“Coverage varies between policies, so homeowners should not assume every expense related to a storm will automatically be covered,” he said. “What often surprises people is that certain losses, limits, or exclusions may apply depending on the policy. That’s why it’s important to review coverage with an insurance advisor before a loss occurs and speak with your insurer directly following an event.”
He added that reporting damage promptly, maintaining organized records and responding quickly to requests for information can help avoid unnecessary delays during the claims process.
Russell said homeowners can reduce future risks by reviewing their insurance coverage regularly, inspecting roofs, gutters and drainage systems, trimming trees where appropriate, securing outdoor items before storms and creating a home inventory with photographs of valuable belongings.
Above all, he said homeowners should remember they don’t have to navigate the recovery process alone.
“Severe weather events can be overwhelming, especially for individuals and families experiencing significant property damage for the first time,” Russell said. “The most important thing to remember is that you don’t have to navigate the process alone. Reach out to your insurer or broker early, ask questions, keep good records, and focus first on protecting your family’s safety and preventing further damage. Insurance professionals are there to help guide property owners through the recovery process.”