An ice storm that struck parts of Ontario and Quebec a month ago caused C$342 mn in insured damage, according to Catastrophe Indices and Quantification Inc. (CatIQ).
The storm brought strong winds and heavy rainfall, resulting in downed trees, power lines, flooded basements, and vehicle damage.
Over one million homes and businesses in Ontario, along with around 70,000 properties in Quebec, lost power. Some areas remained without electricity for more than a week as weather conditions delayed repair efforts (see Natural Catastrophe Exposure Continues to Pressure P&C Insurance Results).
Amanda Dean, Vice-President for Ontario and Atlantic at the Insurance Bureau of Canada, stated that insurers remain active in assisting residents and businesses with repairs and claims.
She acknowledged the work of first responders and emphasized the importance of contacting insurance providers quickly to begin the claims process.
Insurance professionals have been present in affected areas since the storm, continuing to support policyholders whose properties sustained damage.
Many people had their lives disrupted and property damaged from this event. Insurers are here to help residents and businesses recover and rebuild from this storm
Amanda Dean, Vice-President, Ontario and Atlantic, Insurance Bureau of Canada (IBC)
“First responders deserve our appreciation as they worked so diligently to protect lives and properties following this event. Our member insurers are the second responders and have been on the ground since day one. They will continue to work with policyholders whose property was damaged. If you were impacted by the ice storm, it is important to call your insurance provider as soon as possible to start the claims process,” said Amanda Dean.
Flooding and extreme weather events continue to increase in frequency and severity across Ontario, Quebec, and the rest of Canada.
IBC is working with provincial and federal governments to reduce risks linked to severe weather and identify actions governments can take to support safer infrastructure and emergency readiness.
Dean advised policyholders to maintain communication with their insurance representatives and adjusters throughout the recovery process. This includes confirming the availability of contractors, which may affect claim timelines.
For general insurance questions related to auto, home, or business coverage, residents can contact IBC’s Consumer Information Centre at 1-844-2ASK-IBC.
Governments can reduce the financial burden caused by escalating natural disasters by limiting new construction in high-risk flood and wildfire zones, improving community flood defences, helping homeowners assess their exposure, supporting retrofits to reduce property vulnerability, and investing in emergency response systems.
IBC recognized the Government of Ontario’s efforts to improve emergency preparedness across the province.
Standard homeowner insurance policies typically include coverage for damage caused by ice storms.
Owners of seasonal or secondary properties, such as cottages, should inspect for damage and notify their insurance representative promptly.
Coverage terms for these properties may differ from primary home insurance policies. Confirm details by reviewing the policy or consulting an insurance professional.
“With many Ontarians still grappling with the lingering impacts of the recent ice storm, residents have once again experienced a harsh winter with severe storms and floods that damaged or destroyed homes, vehicles and businesses,” said Amanda Dean.
“While parts of Quebec and Atlantic Canada were impacted by these events, the vast majority of damage took place in Ontario, with heavy snowfall, strong wind gusts, ice and rain causing significant structural damage. Our member insurers have been on the ground since day one and continue to work with policyholders whose property was damaged by these events.”
The frequency and severity of flooding and severe storms in Ontario and across Canada continues to increase each year.
IBC is working in close collaboration with the provincial and federal governments to help find solutions to mitigate the risks of severe weather and outline what they can do to help build more resilient communities.
“Flooding and severe winter storms can be costly, stressful and difficult for people who have been affected,” added Dean. “As rebuilding and recovery continue, those who have been impacted can continue to work with their insurance representative and adjuster. This includes asking for updates on contractor availability and how that may impact claim completion.”
