A personal tragedy for a Newfoundland man emphasizes how important it is for homeowners to carry a comprehensive insurance policy. John Neville, a Happy Valley-Goose Bay-area man, will be on the hook for the total cost of repairing his home following a fire as he is uninsured.
The blaze, which broke out the morning of May 1 after Neville had left for work, has partially destroyed the home, originating in the bedroom and spreading to the roof.
In an interview with CBC Radio’s Labrador Morning, Neville stated, "Knowing that I have to tear it down now, it's a hard mess. It's a terrible state… your life is automatically changed.”
A carver and artist by trade, Neville purchased the home 10 years ago, and has since financed renovations through the sale of his artwork.
Neville has stated that several friends have since offered to help offset the costs of rebuilding.
Residential fires account for 73% of structure file losses in Canada. Between 2009 to 2013, 59,353 fires resulting in loss were reported to the The Office of the Fire Marshal and Emergency Management. While 10% of fire incidents are caused by vandalism or arson, 18% are caused by cooking in the home. Natural causes, wiring, cigarettes and appliances are also among the common forms of residential fire ignition in Canada.
