saxbeeinsurance

Understanding Disaster Financial Assistance (DFA)

Admin Team

12 Sep 2025 — 1 min read

When severe weather or natural disasters strike, many people assume government relief programs will step in and cover the damage. While Disaster Financial Assistance (DFA) does exist, it is not a catch-all solution. DFA is designed to provide very limited support, and only in specific situations.

When DFA Is Available:

DFA is only activated when the provincial government declares an event — such as a earthquake, flood, wildfire, or landslide — eligible for aid. It applies to essential needs only, like critical structural repairs to your home or replacement of key systems (furnace, water supply). Importantly, if private insurance is available to you, DFA usually will not apply. Applications must also be made within the set deadline, typically within 60–90 days.

Where DFA Falls Short:

DFA won’t cover everything you’ve lost. Items considered non-essential — furniture upgrades, personal valuables, or luxury features — are not included. Nor is funding automatic; you must go through an application and approval process. The intent of DFA is to restore livability, not to make you whole again.

Why Insurance Is Essential:

Insurance provides the comprehensive safety net DFA cannot. It offers broader protection for your home, belongings, and business, with faster access to funds and coverage that extends far beyond “bare minimum” repairs. In a community like Abbotsford — where floods and other weather events are a real risk — having the right coverage in place is the best way to protect what matters most.

The Takeaway:

DFA can help in limited ways during certain disasters, but it is no substitute for a solid insurance policy. At Saxbee Insurance, we can help you review your coverage options so you’re not left relying on last-resort government aid. Being prepared today means peace of mind tomorrow.

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