New Brunswick has already received more than 160 damage reports related to post-tropical storm Fiona.
In a news release on Thursday, the province said it had received 164 damage reports as of Wednesday.
“Damage has been reported in areas from the Nova Scotia border, along the Northumberland Strait to the Acadian Peninsula, including inland areas,” said the release.
Registering damage is the first step in the province’s Disaster Financial Assistance program — more details of which were also announced Thursday.
Public Safety Minister Bill Hogan said they expect Fiona’s damage total will exceed the $35 million paid out for hurricane Dorian in 2019.
“There is a lot of work to be done in the coming weeks and months to recover,” Hogan said in the release.
“We are committed to making sure disaster financial assistance helps our friends and neighbours get back on their feet as fast as possible.”
Residents, tenants, small businesses, and not-for-profit organizations have until Jan. 31, 2023, to report their damage and submit an application for financial assistance.
Damage assessments will be reviewed, and health and safety inspection teams will be dispatched if required.
Residents are reminded to contact their insurance companies immediately to report damage, take photos of the damage to their homes or properties, and keep receipts of any repairs and replacement purchases.
It is also important to log the number of hours of work undertaken for residents who are cleaning their own properties, or family members or those who have helped in the cleanup of their property.
Maximum claim limits for structural damages are $200,000 for individuals and $500,000 for small businesses and not-for-profit organizations.
Maximum monthly housing rental costs will be $1,500, and advance payments for eligible claimants will be up to $20,000.
“Advance payments are issued where individuals could get back into their homes more quickly with early financial support after initial damage assessments,” said the release.
The province reminded residents that the program does not pay for any damage or loss that is covered by an insurance policy.
Claimants must first contact their insurance provider to determine if coverage of any sort can be provided.
“If affordable coverage was available and not purchased, the Disaster Financial Assistance claim cannot be approved,” said the release.
In addition, the program does not cover items such as cottages, camps, boats, all-terrain vehicles, travel trailers, sheds, barns, detached garages, and decks.
More details about the program can be found by clicking here.
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