Disasters are happening more frequently, not only in Mississauga but across Canada. The City of Mississauga works hard to plan and prepare its response to flooding, severe thunderstorms and even tornadoes but did you know, as a homeowner or tenant, you are responsible for making sure you are prepared to respond too?

One of the best ways you can prepare for emergencies is by having the right insurance coverage. Here are ten questions to ask yourself as we enter storm season in Ontario:

1.    Do you have insurance coverage? If you need to recover costs due to damage or lost items, you need insurance. This applies to both homeowners and renters.

2.    Do you know what your insurance covers? Not all insurance policies are the same. It’s important that you think about all the different assets and possessions you have and what hazards you might face to ensure you have the right coverage.

3.    Who do you call when you need support? Most insurance companies will have a 24/7 emergency number. Make note of it in your emergency contact list and also save it in your phone. Disasters can happen at any time.

4.    Do you have emergency funds put aside? Insurance is your number one financial assistance following a disaster. Without it, you will likely by on the hook for all costs associated with the event. You may have to cover some upfront costs based on your policy.

5.    Do you have flood insurance? Not all policies cover flooding so ask your insurance company before it’s too late. Even if you don’t live by a lake or river, your home could still experience flood damage.

6.    Is your insurance policy up-to-date? Most insurance policies renew automatically. It’s important to review your policy with your insurance representative each year to ensure you are covered based on your most current situation.

7.    Are you getting the most bang for your buck? When you review your policy with your insurance representative, they may be able to find different cost-savings and benefits to protecting your property, while maintaining or even increasing your coverage.

8.    Who needs insurance? Everyone needs insurance. It doesn’t matter if you are an owner or a tenant, insurance will protect you during an emergency.

9.    Do you know the most common disasters for Mississauga? Floods, fires and windstorms are some of the most common disasters in the city of Mississauga. Talk with your insurance representative to ensure you are covered against all of the potential disasters that could impact you.

10. Do you have a home inventory? Having photo documentation of your possessions can be very helpful when making a disaster insurance claim. Take photos of your belongings and keep a digital and printed copy. 

Insurance is one of the most important resources during disasters. Learn more about disaster insurance on the Insurance Bureau of Canada’s Website. For more information on other ways you can prepare for emergencies, visit the City of Mississauga’s Emergency Management Website.