Insurers offer wildfire support as evacuation orders hit thousands in Sask. and Man.

In Saskatchewan, roughly 15,000 residents have been evacuated from over two dozen northern communities following the declaration of a province-wide state of emergency. Meanwhile, nearly all of Flin Flon, Man, including 1,000 residents from the surrounding area, has also been forced to evacuate due to advancing flames.

The Insurance Bureau of Canada (IBC) has deployed its Virtual Community Assistance Mobile Pavilion (V-CAMP) to assist evacuees from both provinces with insurance-related questions and claims.

“Our hearts go out to the individuals and families whose lives have been disrupted by these fires and who have lost property,” says Aaron Sutherland, vice-president, Pacific and Western, IBC, in statements issued following both events. “We applaud all the first responders who have been working tirelessly to protect the affected communities.”

IBC reminds residents that most standard home insurance policies include coverage for fire damage, including damage from neighbouring properties, provided the fire was not set intentionally by the policyholder. These policies also typically include Additional Living Expenses (ALE) coverage, which reimburses for necessary and reasonable costs such as temporary hotel stays.

Support for commercial operators and hoteliers

Hoteliers and other commercial property owners affected by the fires are urged to review their insurance policies for any business interruption or business income coverage that may apply. These coverages are generally purchased as add-ons to a commercial policy and can help offset revenue losses due to an unexpected closure.

IBC notes that the terms of these coverages, particularly the indemnity period, can vary. A limited indemnity period ends once repairs are complete or the business reopens, while extended coverage continues until income levels return to pre-interruption norms, subject to policy limits.

In both Saskatchewan and Manitoba, IBC is working with provincial and local emergency authorities to ensure residents and businesses receive timely guidance. The organization encourages all affected individuals to contact their insurance representative as soon as it is safe to do so and begin documenting losses with photos and receipts.

V-CAMP personnel can be reached through IBC’s Consumer Information Centre at 1-844-2ask-IBC (1-844-227-5422) or AskIBCWest@ibc.ca. IBC also maintains a dedicated webpage on wildfires and insurance that outlines the claims process and coverage details.

For hoteliers operating seasonal or secondary accommodations, such as cabins or cottages, policy terms may differ from those governing primary properties. Owners are advised to check their specific policy language or consult with their insurance provider.

“Rest assured that anyone whose property was damaged can contact their insurance representative when they are ready to start the claims process,” says Sutherland. “Insurers are committed to protecting your tomorrow, by standing with you today.”

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