Here are some claims that have passed through our office over the years:
VEHICLE IMPACT:
Well this one didn’t pass through our office but came very close. At our old office at Broadway & Cambie, the driver of this SUV was supposed to be backing out of the parking spot but had the vehicle in “Drive”. The vehicle jumped the curb and flew into the dry cleaners narrowly missing a customer and employee. Luckily, no one was injured but the storefront was seriously damaged. This is a good example of why you need to review your car insurance annually. The driver’s Liability coverage should have covered all the damage.
WINDSTORM:
This one hit close to home (literally). A couple of years ago during a heavy winter storm, my neighbor’s metal roof from their rear patio was lifted OVER their home and into the front street two houses down the street. I heard the huge crash and went outside to find the roof had hit a couple of cars. Luckily it was at night and no one was around. This was not one of our customers but likely, their home insurance would have covered their damaged roof and damage to the neighbor’s cars.
EXPLOSION:
On February 13, 2008, the Taco Del Mar restaurant and other buildings near our office, suffered major damage due to a fire and explosion. Our office had a dozen broken windows but no other major damage. We were back in business the next day although the gas company shut off our heat for two weeks. The hi-rise next door was closed for months undergoing repairs. The only person injured was the man suspected of starting the fire.
FIRE:
We’ve seen many fires over the years, the most common starting from the kitchen due to deep frying. Other causes would be electrical, barbeques and human error. The resulting smoke and water causes much of the damage. After a fire, the occupants must move to a temporary residence and much of their personal belongings have to be packed up, cleaned or replaced while the dwelling gets repaired. The above photos are from a kitchen fire, electrical fire and human error. All claims were paid.
WEIGHT OF SNOW:
Here’s a lovely patio tent that couldn’t handle the weight of the snow. This claim was covered and a new tent was purchased, but not all home insurance policies cover weight of snow. For example, many rental homes do not have this coverage.
FOOD POISONING:
This one was not actually a claim but could have been a potential loss. A restaurant in our old office complex often stored their poultry and other food in the common hallway. There was no refridgeration. This is an accident waiting to happen. Thankfully, the city Health Authority was called and safety measures were put in place. If you would like to check your favourite restaurant’s inspection history, click here: http://www.foodinspectionweb.vcha.ca/Nav-Main.htm
WATER DAMAGE:
photo coming soon!
One of the most common claims we see are flooded basements due to sewer back-up. Sewer back-up is usually caused by collapsed drain tiles and pipes or tree roots blocking the flow of the water. Floods caused by rising water is usually not covered and insurance is not available for homes. Also leaking roofs and pipes are usually not covered as they are a maintenance issues.
