Tips for prepping insurance claims from flash flooding

After heavy rain hammered a big chunk of the province over the last 24 hours causing flash flooding in some communities; Saskatchewan Government Insurance (SGI) offers a list of tips to people who might encounter water-damaged homes or vehicles.

• Estevan, Yorkton flooding shot on smartphones, shared with Sask.
• Flash floods reported with up to 100 mm of rain predicted for Sask.

As a result of the turbulent weather over Saskatchewan this week, SGI said it expects a higher-than-normal claim volume as a result. Additional adjusters have been dispatched to Estevan, Sask., and in other areas as required to help process claims as quick as possible.

If it's safe to do so, SGI suggests that homeowners dealing with property damage to:  

• Clean up as soon as possible. Seek professional advice on how to clean up and take whatever reasonable steps you can to minimize further damage to your property.  
• Don't throw anything out. Store damaged items in a reasonably safe place so the adjuster can see them when they arrive. If you are disposing of items, take photos and keep a detailed list of what is being thrown away.  
• Have any appliances (including furnaces) that have come in contact with water checked by a qualified electrician, plumber or service dealer before you use them.  
• Do not touch any electrical systems or panels until you know it is safe to do so, especially in wet or damp conditions.  
• Move damaged belongings to a dry area with good ventilation. Keep track of your cleaning time and expenses as they may be covered through the insurance claim. Take photographs or video of damaged property to give to your adjuster.

SGI's claim centre in Estevan has also been flooded and cleaning crews have been called in to deal with the impact.

• State of emergency declared in Estevan, Sask., after heavy rainfall