A partial or major structural collapse can raise questions about the building, affected belongings and insurance policy. Les Expertises LMS helps homeowners and businesses in Quebec organize information and pursue covered losses within the agreed mandate.
Safety before accessing the building
Do not enter a damaged structure to take photographs or recover belongings without authorization from the appropriate professionals. Stability and site safety must be assessed by qualified professionals. LMS assists with the insurance claim; this page is not an assessment of building safety.
What documents should you gather after a collapse?
- Your insurance policy and endorsements;
- observations about the date, location and affected parts of the building;
- existing photographs, plans and available reports;
- information about damaged belongings and expenses incurred;
- assessments and correspondence already received from the insurer.
You can start with an incomplete file. Identify missing records, who may be able to provide them and information that still needs confirmation.
Why review the policy and the facts together?
The word “collapse” alone does not establish coverage for an event. The circumstances, policy provisions and collected information need to be considered. A general explanation cannot determine whether a claim will be accepted or declined.
Our insurance policy analysis service helps organize relevant questions. Specialist technical opinions and particular legal questions should be addressed by the appropriate professionals as needed.
From documentation to settlement
The damage assessment describes affected items and gathers supporting records. Claim preparation brings these documents together for a clear presentation. Within the agreed mandate, LMS then follows up on discussions and settlement negotiations.
Common questions
Can a partial collapse be reviewed?
Share the situation and available records even if only part of the building was affected. A possible mandate and coverage questions are considered in light of the specific facts.
Are plans and technical reports useful?
They can help describe the building and recorded observations. Keep complete versions and the authors’ contact details so clarification can be requested if needed.
What if assessments describe different work?
Identify differences in affected areas, quantities or proposed work. These differences can help frame questions to clarify with the professionals involved and the insurer.
Example
Part of a roof has collapsed. Photographs, available plans and professional reports may help document the damage.
If business activities are interrupted, also see our business insurance claims page.
Free consultation and fees
The initial consultation is free. If you retain us, LMS’s fees are deducted from the insurance settlement paid at the end of the settlement process, as set out in the written engagement agreement. You are responsible for these fees. Take time to understand the services included and the payment terms before signing.
In past claims handled by LMS, additional settlement amounts obtained have offset our fees. Results vary from case to case; this outcome is not a guarantee for your claim.