Mass evacuation coverage is a type of insurance that covers you when a government-ordered evacuation occurs. Generally, this is due to disasters such as floods, wildfires and other natural disasters. In Canada, this coverage is typically included under Additional Living Expenses (ALE), which protects you financially if you’re forced to temporarily leave your home, covering hotel stays, temporary housing, meals, transportation, and other essentials.
If you’re evacuated due to these unexpected events, your insurance can help within days, helping you to avoid costs during an already stressful situation. But what exactly does it cover? How long does it last? And what happens if your home is damaged after you evacuate? This guide answers all your questions about mass evacuation coverage in Canada.
What Is Mass Evacuation Coverage?
It’s no secret that in the past few years, Canada has seen its fair share of natural disasters. From brutal flooding in Ontario to wildfires in British Columbia, being prepared for disasters is critical.
In the event a mass evacuation order is issued, how do you know you’re covered? Will your home insurance cover your accommodations?
This is where mass evacuation coverage comes into play. As a critical component of home insurance, it offers the financial protection you need if you are forced to temporarily leave your home due to a natural (or artificial) disaster.
The purpose of mass evacuation coverage is to ease the financial strain on families during difficult times. Whether it’s a natural disaster or a nuclear emergency, mass evacuation coverage will ensure you and your family have the support you need if you become displaced.
How Can I Qualify For Mass Evacuation Coverage?
To be eligible for mass evacuation coverage, your evacuation order must result from a covered cause or specific peril, such as fire. A civil authority, such as a municipal, provincial, or federal government, must also issue your evacuation order. From there, expenses can only be claimed once your home has been evacuated.
Is Mass Evacuation Included In My Home Insurance Policy?
In most cases, if you have home insurance, then you have mass evacuation insurance. In most cases, mass evacuation coverage will follow under the umbrella of Additional Living Expenses, or ALE.
When an evacuation order impacts your home, your coverage will cover any additional expenses you incur during the order. However, once the evacuation order is lifted, the mass evacuation coverage will also end. If the mass evacuation order ends and your home remains uninhabitable, you should contact your insurance provider immediately.
It is important to note that coverage can be limited to the perils specified in your policy. For example, if you aren’t covered for overland flooding, evacuation due to flooding may leave you uncovered.
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What Are The Three Stages Of A Mass Evacuation?
To better understand mass evacuation coverage, it’s important first to understand the three stages of mass evacuation.
- Evacuation Alert: If a given situation worsens but is not life-threatening, the government will issue an evacuation alert. This means you should be prepared to leave the area at short notice. Pack essentials such as clothes, important documents and medication.
- Evacuation Order: In the event a disaster becomes life-threatening, an evacuation order will be issued by the government. This means you must immediately evacuate your home. If you are eligible, your Additional Living Expenses (ALE) coverage will begin at this point.
- Evacuation Rescinded: Once any threats to your life have passed, you’ll receive word that the evacuation order is lifted. This means that if your home is damaged or lost due to the disaster and you incur additional living expenses, you must file a claim with your insurer.
What Does Mass Evacuation Coverage Cover Under ALE?
In Canada, mass evacuation coverage in your home insurance policy will typically cover the following:
- Temporary Housing: If your home becomes unlivable, your mass evacuation coverage will pay for stays in hotels and airbnbs, a rental apartment, or other temporary accommodations.
- Food and Other Incidentals: Your insurance will cover you for any extra food costs. On top of this, it will cover laundry, storage fees, and pet care costs.
- Transportation: Whether it’s for gas or for public transportation fares, ALE will cover you.
Make sure you keep your receipt for anything you purchase under ALE coverage. It is also important to note the purpose of each purpose. This documentation will serve as evidence to support your claims. Keep in mind that your living expenses are not indefinite. In most cases, mass evacuation coverage begins on the date you are evacuated. From then on, it will continue for the specified period outlined in your policy. In most cases, this will be around 14 days, but it can vary.
Post-Evacuation Coverage
Unfortunately, even after the government deems it safe to return home, there may still be some costs. Luckily, your insurance policy may also cover other critical aspects post-evacuation.
- Replacing Personal Belongings: In some cases, your belongings may be damaged or destroyed due to a covered peril. Fortunately, your insurance will cover the cost of their replacement or restoration. This can include:
- Furniture
- Electronics
- Clothing
- Other possessions
- Rebuilding of Structure: In some cases, your home’s structure may be damaged. Fortunately, your policy will also cover the costs of rebuilding or replacing it. This will generally apply to the main structure of the building, including the wall, roof and foundation, as well as any attached structures.
If your home is still in good shape, your insurance typically won’t cover any continued expenses if you choose not to return to a habitable home. Any costs incurred will be your responsibility.
What’s Covered & What’s Not?
Does Home Insurance Cover Evacuation Costs In Canada?
Yes, most home insurance policies in Canada include mass evacuation coverage under Additional Living Expenses (ALE). Coverage typically applies when a government-issued evacuation order results from an insured peril.
How Long Does Mass Evacuation Coverage Last?
Most insurance policies provide coverage for approximately 14 days, although coverage limits and timelines vary by insurer and policy type.
What expenses are covered during an evacuation?
Mass evacuation coverage may pay for:
- Hotel stays
- Temporary rentals
- Restaurant meals
- Transportation
- Pet boarding
- Laundry and storage fees
Does insurance cover wildfire evacuation?
Yes, wildfire evacuations are generally covered if wildfire damage is listed as an insured peril in your home insurance policy.
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How to Prepare for Evacuation: Next Steps
Mass evacuation coverage can provide critical peace of mind when disaster strikes unexpectedly. While no one wants to think about being forced from their home due to a wildfire, flood or other emergency, having the right insurance coverage in place can make a difficult situation far more manageable. Remember, if you have any questions regarding mass evacuation coverage, don’t hesitate to reach out to us at isure.
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