At the beginning of August, Southwold, St. Catharines, and the Town of Lincoln, Ontario declared local states of emergency because of heavy rains and flooding that damaged thousands of properties.
If you suffered damage from the flooding and have questions or concerns about your business, auto or home insurance, GIO is here to help.
For more information on flooding and insurance, see below:
Flooding: What you need to know and how to prepare
Water Damage & Insurance: What will my insurance cover?
For more information and resources:
Government of Ontario flooding resources
Government of Ontario disaster recovery assistance
Township of Southwold state of emergency information
St. Catharines flooding response and recovery
Town of Lincoln flooding resources
GIO is an independent body set up to help Canadians find a fair resolution to disputes with insurance providers. You must first try to resolve your dispute with your insurer, but if you are not satisfied with the ultimate decision from your provider on your claim, GIO may be able to help resolve your dispute.
If you’d like to submit a claim visit here.
FAQ
What is the cost to use GIO’s services?
All of GIO’s services are free of charge to any home, auto or business insurance policy holder of a subscriber company. We offer services in both English and French, anywhere across Canada. GIO also offers on-demand translation services by phone for those who speak another language.
How and when can I make a complaint about an insurance claim related to the flooding?
Before we can review your complaint, you must first try to resolve the issue with your insurance company. Once you receive a Final Position Letter from your insurance company and you remain unsatisfied, you can bring your complaint to GIO for review.
Are you independent from my insurance company?
GIO is an independent organization with the sole purpose of helping Canadian consumers resolve disputes or concerns with their home, auto or business insurers, free of charge. Our employees are impartial professionals with experience in the insurance industry and related sectors, but with no direct ties to specific insurance companies or their boards of directors. We use our extensive experience and industry-related insight to work towards a fair solution between individuals and their insurance providers.
Photo: Eutah Mizushima