SGI receives wind damage claims from across southern Sask. following blizzard

There are a lot of shingles missing from roofs and trees blown down in backyards across Saskatchewan following this week’s blizzard.

SGI said as of Friday, it had received nearly 1,100 claims due to property damage resulting from wind, plus another 172 auto claims for damage to vehicles resulting from wind.

That’s in addition to 381 collision claims since Wednesday, which is a bit higher than SGI would typically see in that time frame. SGI spokesperson Tyler McMurchy expects those numbers to rise as claims continue to trickle in.

“This was a very significant event. We do expect this to be the largest winter storm of the past season by far from an insurance claim standpoint,” said McMurchy.

McMurchy recommends Saskatchewan residents check their property for damage, looking for signs like fallen branches and lost shingles.

If you find damage, he also recommends taking additional steps to prevent further damage like covering any holes with tarps or plywood if you’re able to do so safely.

“We don’t want to see anybody putting themselves at risk. Don’t climb on a ladder if you can’t do so safely. If you need to, call in a professional and keep track of any expenses you occur as some of them may be covered by your insurance claim,” said McMurchy.

SGI also advises to take lots of pictures of the damage to submit as part of your claim, especially if you need to repair something immediately.

While claims are being submitted from across southern Saskatchewan, McMurchy said the top five communities filing the most claims are Regina, Moose Jaw, Weyburn, Radville and Estevan.