Flooding has become more of a problem in recent years and, as a result, we are seeing increased basement flooding across Ontario due to a variety of reasons, including:

• Extreme rainfall events
• Aging municipal infrastructure
• Lack of flood protection measures at the household level
• Urban development leading to less green space

In 2013, we had a record torrential rainfall, which sparked a change in the insurance industry in Ontario.

Since water damage accounts for over 50% of property claims, and water coverage is provided in a number of different ways among home insurance policies, it is important to discuss your plan and what it includes with your broker. 

Here are 3 common types of water coverage to ask your insurance broker about:

Sewer Backup Water Coverage

Most qualifying customers choose sewer, septic, and/or sump pump failure coverage. This protects you in the event that you experience a sudden and accidental backup or leak from your sewer, septic, sump pump, or a drain in your home.

This type of coverage has expanded in recent years, with some insurers also providing coverage for damage to sewer lines or water service lines between your home and the public system.

Overland Water Coverage

Overland water includes lake or river water, heavy rain, or rapid snowmelt and is especially important in Ontario where we experience all four seasons. This type of coverage includes any overland water that enters your home at or above ground surface.

Groundwater Coverage

Gravity can generate pressure on groundwater, forcing the water underneath and around your home to come through the basement walls or floor. This is known as hydrostatic pressure.

Depending on recent weather events, and the state of regular water seepage into your home over an extended period of time, groundwater coverage could be a great add on to your home’s insurance plan.

How To Proactively Reduce Flood Risk In Your Home

A flooded basement can happen unexpectedly and damage your home, its contents, and, if not dealt with properly, can cause serious health hazards such as mould.

In order to reduce the risk of major damage to your home, consider:

• Frequently testing sump pumps, extending downspouts, and installing window well covers
• Hiring a contractor to install backup sump pumps, backwater valves, and replacing old basement windows
• Installing alarm systems that monitor backwater valves, detect water on floors, and alert to the continuous running of water

As a homeowner, it can be difficult to know what exactly you should know about home insurance. At Dawson & Keenan, it is important to us that we find you the best protection at the lowest rates.

We believe in customizing insurance policies to meet our client’s specific needs. Once you decide which types of protection you want, our team of experienced home insurance brokers will find the best policy for you.

If you have questions about your policy’s water coverage, or would like a quote, feel free to contact us here and a member of our team will be happy to assist you.