Latest news with #AmandaDean
CTV News
4 days ago
- Automotive
- CTV News
Waterloo man issued anti-theft surcharge for Jeep Gladiator
A Waterloo man is upset about having to pay to install a tracker in his jeep, as his insurance company is concerned about its chance of being stolen. Aaron Leamon owns a 2020 Jeep Gladiator. He received a letter from his insurer this month informing him that his vehicle is at high-risk of theft and is now subject to an annual $500 surcharge. However, he can avoid the surcharge by installing a tracking system. Leamon said it's $400 for the device, his insurance will cover $100 of it, but he's not sure of installation costs and expects to pay $500 either way. 'Very disappointing. Knowing that I am a target. And I feel for all the other people that are targets of this as well. But the auto industry, the auto makers should actually already know all this information, and they should be making it better for the consumer not to have to spend out of pocket after you buy the vehicle,' Leamon said. According to the Insurance Bureau of Canada, rates of auto theft claims in Canada were 538 percent higher last year compared to 2017. As well, insurers are still paying a lot out in claims as people continue to be victimized. 'With all of that we are working with government, we are working with law enforcement, we are trying to find solutions. But in the meantime, the claims need to be paid, and the money needs to come from somewhere,' said Amanda Dean, vice-president of Ontario and Atlantic, Insurance Bureau of Canada. Dean said people with vehicles at a high risk of being stolen, or that live in a high risk area, will start to see insurers starting to implement some things. 'The levers that they can pull in order to be able to pay claims but also to incentivize folks to install tracking devices, install anti-theft devices,' Dean said. Leamon said he understands the insurers need make money, but he feels the manufacturer should be doing more to help. 'I understand where they're coming from because it is a target. So they're going to end up having to pay more money over time. So that's the insurance paying out money where the automaker can stop this and probably be better for the consumers all the way around,' Leamon said. According to Dean, a lot of work has been done to combat auto theft, with new resources from governments for prosecution and for police, insurance companies are making these surcharges, and clients are installing anti-theft tools. 'If there's something they can do to help prevent this as well, it really sends a strong message. But of course, as you mentioned, manufacturers have a role to play in combatting auto theft as well,' Dean said. 'Everyone who has a problem, contact your dealership and send them a message and say, why? ask why this is not being done to all cars?' Leamon said. Stellantis said it's Jeep Connect service includes both vehicle theft alert and stolen vehicle assistance. 'Stellantis vehicles meet or exceed all applicable federal standards for safety and security. While such events are rare, they are not exclusive to any make or model of vehicle. Stellantis uses industry-standard vehicle-security technology. And as with other vehicle features, we are engaged in continuous product improvement. Notwithstanding, we urge all motorists to take due care in securing their vehicles. The security and protection of our customers are unsurpassed priorities at Stellantis.' Stellantis said, in an email to CTV News.
Cision Canada
08-05-2025
- Automotive
- Cision Canada
Insurance experts available to help Newfoundland and Labrador residents affected by wildfire
HALIFAX, NS, May 8, 2025 /CNW/ - With four active wildfires in Newfoundland & Labrador, including two that are currently listed as out of control, Insurance Bureau of Canada (IBC) has deployed its Virtual Community Assistance Mobile Pavilion (V-CAMP) to provide insurance information to affected residents. IBC is in close contact with provincial government and emergency management officials, as well as with municipal officials in the affected communities. This situation is changing rapidly. "Unfortunately, local officials have confirmed that a wildfire that forced residents in Conception Bay North to evacuate, has now resulted in the loss of multiple properties. Our hearts go out to the individuals and families whose lives have been disrupted and whose property has been damaged," said Amanda Dean, Vice-President, Ontario and Atlantic, IBC. "We thank all the first responders and emergency officials who have been working so diligently to protect lives and property. The priority right now is the safety of those affected and their loved ones. While recovery efforts continue, rest assured that anyone whose property was damaged can contact their insurance representative when they are ready to start the claims process. Those with general insurance questions are encouraged to contact IBC's Consumer Information Centre at 1-844-2ask-IBC." Insurers serve as "second responders" in the recovery period after catastrophe strikes. IBC's V-CAMP is staffed with trained insurance industry personnel at IBC's Consumer Information Centre at 1-844-2ask-IBC (1-844-227-5422) and [email protected] to help address consumers' general questions about their home, business or vehicle insurance policies. Affected residents can also visit IBC's Wildfires & Insurance webpage to learn more about insurance and the various stages of the claims process. When the Smoke Clears . . . What's Covered? Virtually every home insurance policy covers damage caused by fire, even if the fire began on a neighbouring property, as long as the fire was not started intentionally by the policy holder. Damage to vehicles from fire is usually covered if comprehensive or all perils car insurance was purchased. As this coverage is not mandatory, talk to your insurance representative to ensure that you have appropriate insurance coverage. In certain circumstances, homeowners who are evacuated or unable to return home as a result of insurable damage are entitled to additional living expenses (ALE). If you've been ordered to leave your home, keep the receipts for your living expenses (for example, hotel costs). Most homeowner's and tenant's insurance policies cover any reasonable additional living expenses for a specified period of time. Ask your insurance representative about the amount of living expenses you're entitled to claim. Tips for Starting the Claims Process Call your insurance representative as soon as possible. Most insurers have a 24-hour claims service. Be as detailed as possible when providing information. When it is safe to do so, list all damaged or destroyed items. If possible, assemble proofs of purchase, photos, receipts and warranties. Take photos of damage incurred and keep damaged items, unless they pose a health hazard. Keep all receipts related to cleanup and living expenses if you've been displaced. Ask your insurance representative about what coverage for expenses you may be entitled to and for what period of time. Seasonal or secondary residences When it is safe to do so, check any seasonal or secondary residences (e.g., cottages) and report any damage to your insurance representative as soon as possible. Policies for these properties may have different coverage or limits than a primary home insurance policy. Review your policy or check with your insurance professional to confirm your coverage. About Insurance Bureau of Canada Established in 1964, Insurance Bureau of Canada (IBC) is the national industry association representing Canada's private home, auto and business insurers. Its member companies make up the vast majority of Canada's highly competitive property and casualty (P&C) insurance market. As the leading advocate for Canada's private P&C insurers, IBC collaborates with governments, regulators and stakeholders to support a competitive environment for the P&C insurance industry to continue to help protect Canadians from the risks of today and tomorrow. IBC believes that Canadians value and deserve a responsive and resilient private P&C insurance industry that provides insurance solutions to both individuals and businesses. For media releases, IN Focus articles, or to book an interview with an IBC representative, visit Follow, us on LinkedIn, X and Instagram, and like us on Facebook. If you have a question about home, auto or business insurance, contact IBC's Consumer Information Centre at 1-844-2ask-IBC. We're here to help.
Global News
30-04-2025
- Business
- Global News
Major ice storm causes $342M in insured damages across Ontario and Quebec
The late-season ice storm that swept through parts of Ontario and Quebec has left an astronomical bill in its wake. The Catastrophe Indices and Quantification Inc. estimates that the ice storm at the end of March caused approximately $342 million in insured damage. The storm downed trees and power lines, flooded basements and damaged vehicles, with over 1 million homes and businesses in Ontario and 70,000 in Quebec without power. The Insurance Bureau of Canada said that in some cases, properties were without power for over a week due to strong winds and heavy rainfall that prevented hydro crews from completing necessary restoration work. '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,' said Amanda Dean, vice-president of the bureau for Ontario and the Atlantic region. Story continues below advertisement Dean notes that insurance companies are continuing to work with policyholders impacted by the storm. Get daily National news Get the day's top news, political, economic, and current affairs headlines, delivered to your inbox once a day. Sign up for daily National newsletter Sign Up By providing your email address, you have read and agree to Global News' Terms and Conditions and Privacy Policy 'Storms of this magnitude can take significant emotional and financial tolls on those affected,' said Dean. The bureau warns that the frequency and severity of flooding and extreme weather in Ontario, Quebec and across Canada continue to increase each year. In 2025, home insurance rates have risen 5.28 per cent, well above the rate of inflation, according to a report published by My Choice Financial, a Canadian insurance aggregator and comparison website. While there are several factors, insurance experts say climate change is a major driving force. The Insurance Bureau of Canada reported record-breaking losses of $8.5 billion paid out in 2024, triple that seen in 2023 and 12 times the annual average between 2001 and 2010. Amid increased risk, the bureau notes that it is collaborating with the provincial and federal governments to try to find solutions to mitigate the risks of severe weather. The bureau is urging all levels of government to take steps to adapt to extreme weather. The bureau's recommendations include no longer building unprotected homes and businesses in high-risk flood and wildfire zones, enhancing flood defences in communities at high risk of flood, helping homeowners understand their risks, subsidizing home retrofits to help homeowners reduce their exposure to floods and wildfires, and investing in improved emergency preparedness, response and recovery capacity. Story continues below advertisement More information on protecting your property from potential risks is available on the Institute for Catastrophic Loss Reduction website.
Cision Canada
30-04-2025
- Climate
- Cision Canada
Ontario and Quebec ice storm causes $342 million in insured damage
TORONTO, April 30, 2025 /CNW/ - A severe ice storm that hit parts of Ontario and Quebec one month ago caused $342 million in insured damage, according to initial estimates from Catastrophe Indices and Quantification Inc. (CatIQ). This storm resulted in many downed trees and power lines, flooded basements and damaged vehicles. In total, more than one million homes and businesses in Ontario and around 70,000 properties in Quebec experienced power outages. In some instances, properties were without power for over a week due to strong winds and heavy rainfall that prevented hydro crews from completing necessary restoration work. "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," said 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." The frequency and severity of flooding and extreme weather in Ontario, Quebec and across Canada continue to increase each year. IBC is collaborating with the provincial and federal governments to help find solutions to mitigate the risks of severe weather and outline what governments can do to help build more resilient communities. "Storms of this magnitude can take significant emotional and financial tolls on those affected," added Dean. "As the recovery and rebuilding process moves forward, residents should stay in close contact with their insurance representatives and adjusters. This includes checking in on contractor availability and understanding how it may influence the timing of your claim. Anyone with general auto, home or business insurance questions can also contact IBC's Consumer Information Centre at 1-844-2ASK-IBC or by email at [email protected]." Severe weather is getting worse. And we are all paying the price. To protect Canadians from ever-escalating natural catastrophes, there are meaningful steps that governments can take to adapt to extreme weather. These include no longer building unprotected homes and businesses in high-risk flood and wildfire zones, enhancing flood defences in communities at high risk of flood, helping homeowners understand their risks, subsidizing home retrofits to help homeowners reduce their exposure to floods and wildfires, and investing in improved emergency preparedness, response and recovery capacity. IBC commends the Government of Ontario for its commitment to strengthening emergency preparedness in the province. Rest easier. Know what's covered. Homeowner insurance policies usually cover damage to homes caused by an ice storm, such as: Damage caused by wind and rain Damage caused by flying debris or fallen trees and/or branches Damage to the home and its contents from water entering through openings suddenly caused by wind. Depending on the details of the policy, insurance may also cover additional damage: Water damage in a basement due to sewer backup is only covered if you have purchased specific optional sewer backup coverage. Damage from overland flooding, which occurs when bodies of water such as rivers overflow onto dry land, is only covered if you have purchased specific optional overland flood coverage. However, if you live in a known flood plain, this coverage may not be available. Removing debris (e.g., a downed tree on your property) may be the homeowner's responsibility. Insurance coverage is typically not provided if the property was not damaged. Coverage for ice damming, which can occur when heavy snow buildup melts during the day and refreezes when temperatures drop overnight, is usually optional. Speak to your insurance representative if you are concerned about such loss or damage. Subject to any applicable exclusions, the contents of your refrigerator and freezer may be covered for a specified amount for damage related to food spoilage caused by an accidental power interruption. Check your policy or speak with your insurance representative. In certain circumstances, homeowners who are unable to stay in their homes because of insured damage may be entitled to additional living expenses. Check with your insurance representative to find out what your policy covers. Seasonal or secondary residences Check any seasonal or secondary residences (e.g., cottages) and report any damage to your insurance representative as soon as possible. Policies for these properties may have different coverage or limits than a primary home insurance policy. Review your policy or check with your insurance professional to confirm your coverage. The insured damage estimate is provided by CatIQ ( under licence to IBC. About Insurance Bureau of Canada Established in 1964, Insurance Bureau of Canada (IBC) is the national industry association representing Canada's private home, auto and business insurers. Its member companies make up the vast majority of Canada's highly competitive property and casualty (P&C) insurance market. As the leading advocate for Canada's private P&C insurers, IBC collaborates with governments, regulators and stakeholders to support a competitive environment for the P&C insurance industry to continue to help protect Canadians from the risks of today and tomorrow. IBC believes that Canadians value and deserve a responsive and resilient private P&C insurance industry that provides insurance solutions to both individuals and businesses. For media releases, IN Focus articles, or to book an interview with an IBC representative, visit Follow us on LinkedIn, X and Instagram, and like us on Facebook. If you have a question about home, auto or business insurance, contact IBC's Consumer Information Centre at 1-844-2ask-IBC. We're here to help.
