Resources
Insurance Claim Help
Most restoration jobs are paid through a home or business insurance claim. DKI Central Alberta documents every job the way adjusters need it and explains each step in plain language, so you can focus on getting back to normal.
How the claims process works
Alberta’s Insurance Act sets statutory conditions that are part of every property insurance contract in the province. After a loss, you must immediately give your insurer notice in writing, take all reasonable steps to prevent further damage, and deliver a proof of loss as soon as practicable, including an inventory of what was damaged and when and how the loss happened.
Once the proof of loss is complete, the statutory conditions say the loss is payable within 60 days unless your policy sets a shorter period. Your insurer also has the right to inspect the property, and a further right of access after you’ve secured it.
Steps in a typical claim:
Report the loss to your insurer right away
Protect the property from further damage
Photograph everything before it’s removed
Meet the adjuster and review the scope of work
Deliver your proof of loss
Approve the work, then a final walkthrough
What we document for your adjuster
Good documentation is what keeps a claim moving. From the first visit, we record the damage, the work we do and the readings that show when materials are dry, so your adjuster can review and approve the scope without endless back-and-forth.
If you need to secure the property first, our emergency board-up and tarping crews can help. Alberta’s statutory conditions require insurers to contribute on a prorated basis toward reasonable and proper expenses for preventing further damage, so keep every receipt.
Our documentation includes:
Time-stamped photos and video
Daily moisture readings and drying logs
Itemized lists of damaged materials and contents
A written scope of work
Records of emergency work and equipment used
What home insurance usually covers
According to the Insurance Bureau of Canada, all standard homeowner’s and tenant’s policies cover fire damage, and sudden water damage from inside the home, such as a burst pipe, is basic coverage. Sewer backup and overland flooding are typically not covered by a standard policy and are offered as optional add-ons.
If your home is unliveable after an insured loss, additional living expenses (ALE) cover the increased cost of living while you’re displaced, such as a hotel and restaurant meals. Keep all receipts. For more on water and fire claims, see our guides to water damage costs and fire damage costs.
Coverage at a glance:
Fire and smoke: standard coverage
Sudden water damage from inside the home: standard coverage
Sewer backup: optional add-on
Overland flooding: optional add-on
Additional living expenses: covered after an insured loss, within limits
Gradual leaks and maintenance issues: usually excluded
Your rights during a claim
The Insurance Bureau of Canada says you are not obligated to use the contractor your insurer recommends. Ask your restoration company for an estimate, then speak with your adjuster before work begins to find out how much of it your insurer will pay.
If you disagree with your insurer, start with your adjuster, then the insurer’s complaint liaison officer or ombudsperson. The General Insurance OmbudService (1-877-225-0446) offers free, impartial help with home, auto and business insurance disputes. Alberta’s Insurance Act also provides an appraisal process for disagreements over the amount of a loss, and an action must generally be started within 2 years of when you knew or ought to have known about the loss.
Where to get help:
Your adjuster
Your insurer’s complaint liaison officer or ombudsperson
General Insurance OmbudService (GIO)
Alberta Insurance Council (agents, brokers and adjusters)
Alberta Superintendent of Insurance (insurer conduct)
Insurance claim questions
Can I choose my own restoration company?
Yes. The Insurance Bureau of Canada says you are not obligated to use the contractor your insurer recommends. Get an estimate from the company you choose and talk to your adjuster about how much your insurer will pay before work begins.
Do I have to wait for the adjuster before starting cleanup?
No. Alberta’s statutory conditions require you to take all reasonable steps to prevent further damage, such as extracting water, boarding up openings or tarping a roof. Take photos before anything is moved and keep every receipt.
How quickly do I have to report a loss in Alberta?
Alberta’s statutory conditions say you must immediately give your insurer notice in writing, and deliver a proof of loss as soon as practicable. Call your insurer or broker as soon as it’s safe to do so.
How long does my insurer have to pay?
Under Alberta’s statutory conditions, the loss is payable within 60 days after a complete proof of loss is delivered, unless your policy provides for a shorter period.
What if I disagree with my insurer?
Start with your adjuster, then your insurer’s complaint liaison officer or ombudsperson. The General Insurance OmbudService offers free, impartial help, and Alberta’s Insurance Act has an appraisal process for disputes about the amount of a loss.
DKI Central Alberta Offers...
At DKI Central Alberta, we know that dealing with property damage is overwhelming—that’s why our franchisees are ready to respond 24/7, every day of the year. With over 30 years of industry experience and IICRC-certified experts, we bring the knowledge, speed, and care needed to restore your home or business efficiently. From the moment you call, a dedicated Project Manager will guide you through the process, keeping you informed every step of the way. Our team is committed to delivering high-quality results while providing the compassion and support you need to get back on your feet as quickly as possible.
Quick Mobilization
24/7 emergency restoration and board-up services available 365 days a year.
Expertise
Fully trained and certified IICRC staff and more than 30 years of industry experience.
Strong Communication
A project Manager assigned to your claim from start to finish, updating you throughout the process.
Quality Assurance
Making sure you are happy with the final result of the work done and standing behind the work we do.
Compassionate Team
We understand how hard the situation is and our team will do what we can to get you back to normal sooner.
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(403) 224-0350