Sunday July 3rd, 2016 saw a vicious storm hit parts of West Central Saskatchewan.  Strong winds and golf ball sized hail caused damage to vehicles and homes with residents left in the aftermath to deal with repairs.

Kelley Brinkworth, Manager of Media Relations for Saskatchewan Government Insurance spoke to West Central Online about the easiest ways to start the process.

"When it comes to vehicle claims, the quickest way to do that is online using the E-Claim service. Also there is the option of phoning in your claim to your local claim center.  Some of these claims may actually qualify so you can have the appraisal done right at the auto-body shop, and then cut out that step of having to take it into the SGI claim center for the damage estimate."

For property and home damage Brinkworth added that the process is a little different.

"You contact your insurance broker, and then your broker will notify your insurer.  If it is SGI Canada then what we'll do is have an adjuster call you and set up an appointment to come out and access the damage to your home."

While claims have started to come in, SGI is unsure of the exact volume expected.  With summer storm season not being an unusual occurrence in Saskatchewan they are prepared for the incoming claims, however Kelley Brinkworth states if the volume is higher than expected additional adjusters could be assigned to the area.

SGI also offered important advice regarding what do after any storm.

  • Take pictures and video of damaged property and vehicles as soon as it is safe to do so.
  • Log the time and expenses that occur when cleaning up after damage.  Clean up as soon as possible and seek professional advice on the best ways to avoid further damage.
  • Keep damaged items in a safe, dry place and do not throw anything out until a adjuster has seen them.  If disposal is needed take pictures and list what has been thrown away
  • Have any appliances that have been damaged or come into contact with water checked by a qualified serviceperson before using them again.
  • Do not touch any electrical systems or panels until you know it is safe to do so, especially in wet or damp conditions.