How to File a Home Insurance Claim in Canada
A claim starts with safety and loss control, then moves into documentation, insurer notification and policy review. Keep the facts separate from assumptions about what will be paid.
1. Protect people and prevent further damage
Address urgent safety issues first. When it is safe to do so, take reasonable steps to prevent additional damage without making permanent repairs that could interfere with the insurer's assessment.
2. Document the loss
Photograph or video damaged areas and belongings. Keep damaged items unless they are unsafe or create a health hazard, and confirm with the insurer before disposing of property when practical.
Receipts, warranties, purchase records and a current home inventory can make ownership and replacement-value discussions much easier.
Contact the insurer or insurance representative promptly
IBC advises reporting theft, accident or property damage as soon as possible and providing complete, accurate details. The insurer can explain immediate next steps and assign an adjuster where appropriate.
IBC — How to File a Home Insurance Claim →3. Keep claim-related receipts
Keep receipts for emergency cleanup, temporary repairs and other claim-related expenses. If the home becomes unliveable after an insured loss, ask whether Additional Living Expenses apply and what documentation is required.
4. Understand the adjuster's role
The insurer may assign an adjuster to examine the circumstances, policy coverage, damaged property and supporting documents. Filing a claim does not by itself determine the final settlement amount.
Useful claim preparation
Document rooms, damage and individual items.
Keep an updated list of belongings and approximate values.
Retain cleanup, repair and temporary-living documentation.
Know the insurer, policy number and claims contact information.
Disaster recovery adds B.C.-specific insurance and assistance questions
After a B.C. wildfire, flood or evacuation, a household may need to separate Additional Living Expenses, Emergency Support Services and Disaster Financial Assistance. The B.C. claims cluster also explains property documentation and the current DFA rules without treating government aid as an insurance benefit.