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Financial assistance for uninsurable wildfire losses

The Disaster Financial Assistance Program is now open for municipalities and others who suffered uninsurable losses as a result of this year’s wildfires in Halifax Regional Municipality, Shelburne County, and Yarmouth County.

This program helps residential property owners and tenants with costs to repair or replace uninsurable, essential basic property loss (like appliances and furniture) due to the spring 2023 wildfires. The program is also available to small businesses and non-profits.

Repair and replacement costs for insured and insurable items (even if insurance wasn’t purchased) are not eligible for assistance. Food lost due to the spring 2023 wildfires also isn’t eligible for assistance.

You need to apply on or before January 31, 2024.

Financial assistance amount

Financial assistance provides up to $200,000 for repair and replacement costs.

Eligibility

Residential property owners can apply for financial assistance if:

  • the damage occurred during the wildfires in Halifax Regional Municipality, Shelburne County and Yarmouth County on May 27 to June 11, 2023
  • you don’t have insurance to cover your entire loss
  • you own the property
  • the property is your primary residence

Residential property tenants can apply for financial assistance if:

  • the damage occurred during the wildfires in Halifax Regional Municipality, Shelburne County and Yarmouth County on May 27 to June 11, 2023
  • you rent or lease the property
  • you lost contents of your rental unit
  • you don’t have insurance to cover your entire loss
  • the property is your primary residence

How to apply

  • Complete the Confirmation of Insurance Form and application form.
  • Check the application for details on all required supporting documents.
  • Send your completed application and supporting documents by mail.

Before you start

Make sure you have:

  • name of insurance company, policy number, and agent’s name and phone number
  • photos of the damage, as well as any “before” photos if you have any
  • itemized description of damage or loss and replacement cost estimates
  • copy of your rental agreement, if applicable
  • authorized representative of your insurance company available to complete and sign the Confirmation of Insurance Form

If you require help with your application, 211 Nova Scotia can answer questions about the application process and help identify what information and supporting documents you need.

Apply

Disaster financial assistance application