News Release
HRM Wants Insurance Industry to Understand Heritage Designation
(Wednesday, July 30/2003)-- Halifax Regional Municipality plans to organize a meeting with provincial heritage officials, heritage organizations and heritage homeowners in an effort to address growing concerns over insurance coverage for historic buildings.
There have been a number of recent incidents where heritage property owners have faced steep insurance increases or non-renewal of their policies.
Kevin Barrett, Heritage Planner for the Halifax Regional Municipality, said today such decisions by insurance companies are based upon a fundamental misconception about heritage registration.
Mr. Barrett said " Heritage registration does not require expensive post and beam construction with pegs. We only regulate the exterior appearance of heritage buildings. This does not involve extra costs if an owner is repairing a damaged building."
There are over 450 registered heritage properties in HRM.
Paul Dunphy, Director of Planning & Development Services, said "The issue of insurance for heritage properties is a major concern. HRM will be meeting with Provincial officials, heritage organizations and heritage property owners to ensure the insurance industry has a clear understanding of the Heritage Property Act."
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Paul Dunphy
Director, Planning and development
(902) 490-4933
Kevin Barrett
Heritage Planner
(992) 490-4419
