08/30/2021

Is Your Home Protected Against Potential Flooding?

If you’ve lived in Ontario for some time, you’ve likely noticed the significant change in weather patterns over the years. The backing up of a sump pump, sewer and/or septic water occurs when there are blockages or a failed power system that should be removing the sewage or sump water. Rapid rain and snowmelt can often lead to water pooling outside. Rivers, streams and lakes can overflow by rapidly rising water levels due to snowmelt or bursting dams, dikes and levees, or by heavy winds pushing water. Flooding is the overflow of a waterbody or containment, but for many homeowners, it’s simply the concern of water damaging property.

Consult with a local contractor about physical property protection.
“An ounce of prevention is worth the pound of cure.” – Ben Franklin

Being prepared before the flood occurs is the best action you can take. Your local contractor should understand the area’s flooding situation and can help suggest both physical barriers (such as retaining walls and dikes) as well as simple drainage solutions through proper excavation, grading and sloping of the land. Stopping water is nearly impossible, so the goal is to move water away from your building. Flowing stormwater away from your property or into catch basins can minimize or completely eliminate damage.

Keep an eye on the weather forecast and respond like a boss.
“Hope for the best and prepare for the worst.” - Seasoned Storm Chasers

Technology is a wonderful thing, isn’t it? The 24/7 news cycle and your smartphone’s weather app can give you the (unfortunate) heads-up that your beautiful day in the sun is about to turn into a freight train of wind and rain! While the alert may not call for a dramatic evacuation, it is important to prepare for the wind and resulting water. Ensure that outdoor furniture and property are inside or safely tied down. Have a backup power source to keep the water mitigations systems working and prepare to keep the drain line and sewer lines free of debris. A shovel and rake can be your tools of the trade on the night of a storm to help clear sewer grates and prevent water from pooling on the street. While preparing sandbags is a challenging task, filling and stacking them as a barrier to prevent water flooding may save your property and your community. You could be the hero of the ‘hood after the storm has passed!

Be safe and heed the local advice.
“Allow us to give you a bit of free advice.” – Everyone’s favourite Uncle

The Regional Conservation Authority provides great direction on the likelihood of certain areas being impacted by flooding, the extent, and the damages to be expected. Heed their advice!

Stay clear of downed power lines, and don’t drive or walk through floodwaters as you never know what could be hiding underneath.

Once the storm has passed, inspect the interior and exterior of your home for damage. Check your roof, windows, porch and walkways. Never attempt to reconnect electricity, natural gas, telephone or TV cable yourself. Call your service provider and leave it to the professionals!

Water Insurance Coverage is complex and requires the advice of an insurance broker.
“Your best insurance is an insurance broker.” – Insurance Brokers Association of Canada

Every property is unique and every property has its own unique exposure to water damages. An insurance broker can help you find the right water insurance coverage protection and can offer advice on the important aspects and limitations of coverage. The proximity to a water body or the municipal sewer systems can impact coverage availability and costs, however, an insurance broker can help you navigate your water damage exposures and understand how different insurance company’s offerings. No matter how small or large your concern is about water damage, it’s best to consult our dedicated team so we can guide and help you along the way!

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