Evacuation after a natural disaster: which insurance provides cover?
Landslides and rockfalls can make homes uninhabitable. Comparis explains what insurance will pay out for accommodation and food.
11.02.2021
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Landslides and rockfalls can cause immense damage to people and their belongings. Comparis explains which insurance will step in if you are affected by this kind of natural disaster.
In summer 2017, a landslide thundered through the village of Bondo in the canton of Graubünden. Eight people lost their lives and parts of the village were destroyed. A similar disaster in the Valais mountain village of Gondo also remains a tragic memory. Torrential rain triggered a landslide there in the autumn of 2000. It destroyed a third of the village, and 13 people were killed.
As human activity encroaches on more and more land and climate change continues unchecked, there is an increased probability of such disasters occurring.
Who covers any additional costs resulting from the event?
Most contents insurance policies include cover for additional expenses such as for hotel accommodation, clearing and disposal and any meals purchased away from home due to damaged rooms being unusable.
Who covers the costs incurred by evacuees whose home is in a danger zone?
Insurance policies only cover costs incurred by a loss or damage. In other words, some damage must have occurred to make rooms unusable. The local authority usually takes care of food and accommodation for residents whose homes are not damaged but located in the danger zone.
How do I make a claim?
You should notify your contents insurer of the damage immediately – ideally by phone. The insurer will check your cover, estimate the cost of the damage and, if the claim is successful, pay out the required amount. Important: keep receipts for accommodation, meals and so on. The insurance company may ask you for them.
Are evacuees entitled to emergency financial assistance from the insurance companies?
Depending on your cover and the goodwill of the company, you may be able to get some immediate financial assistance. It is a good idea to contact your insurance company as soon as possible and remain in close communication with them while the claim is being processed.
How is damage to buildings insured?
Buildings insurance covering fire and natural hazards is compulsory in most cantons and is provided by cantonal building insurers. Homeowners must report any damage immediately.
This article was first published on 11.02.2021