AVIVA Insurance Company has introduced a new coverage that will be available to Alberta property owners as of June 1, 2015. The Overland Water Protection will include basic policy water protection (such as broken pipes), the sewer backup endorsement, as well as an overland water endorsement. AVIVA is the first Insurer in Canada to offer this type of coverage, and as one of their Brokers, we are excited to be able to offer it to our clients.
Overland Water is defined as fresh water from rivers, lakes or water suddenly accumulating as a result of heavy rainfall. The new endorsement does NOT cover damage from flood.
The coverage will be available for the majority of Homeowner’s, Condominiums, Tenant’s, Secondary, Seasonal, and Rental properties. AVIVA has created a range of Overland Water Zones to determine which properties are eligible, and at what premium. The zones were creating using AVIVA’s flood models to predict the frequency and severity of overland water losses. Based on their current rating system, the majority of properties qualify for the coverage. There will be a separate deductible for the endorsement that can range from $1,000 to $50,000.
There have also been some changes made to AVIVA’s sewer backup endorsement, which will take effect June 1, 2015 for all new policies written and effective August 1, 2015 for all policy renewals.
For our clients, we have requested that AVIVA add the Overland Water Protection to all eligible policies effective renewal. The coverage is also eligible to be added mid-term if requested. Our Team will be contacting any of our clients who’s policies do not qualify for the Overland Water Protection coverage, or where the addition of coverage results in a significant premium increase.
For tips on how to protect your property from water damage, please check out the following video:
If you have any questions regarding AVIVA’s new Overland Water Protection coverage, or if you would like to review policy, please do not hesitate to contact our Office as we would be more than happy to assist you!
Thank you,
The Costen & Associates Team
