Fierce GTA Flooding and 5 Tips to Protect Your Property

The recent flooding in the Greater Toronto Area has caused a lot of destruction, and many people are reconsidering their flood preparedness. The increased frequency of severe weather conditions makes it necessary to be knowledgeable about different types of flooding, what ordinary Ontario home insurance policies include, and how to protect your home, vehicle, or business.

Types of Flooding

Flooding comes in different forms, each with its own challenges:

Overland Water: This is when water from rivers, lakes or heavy rainfall flows over the ground and enters homes and commercial buildings. It is very conspicuous and can cause a lot of damage within no time.

Sewer Backup: This flooding may be particularly dangerous because it happens when there is a heavy downpour leading to excessive pressure on municipal sewer systems which causes them to fail thus letting dirty water flow into basements through floor drains.

Groundwater Seepage: This happens when water seeps through soil into foundations by cracking them. While it may not look as dramatic, it can cause significant structural damage over time.

What Is Included in Standard Home Policies in Ontario?

Some kinds of water damage are covered by standard home insurance policies in Ontario, but there are some important exclusions.

Included: Many policies include sudden and accidental water damage from burst pipes or faulty appliances.

Not included: Standard policies generally exclude overland flooding and sewer backup requiring additional coverage. These endorsements are becoming increasingly necessary due to increased frequency and severity of weather events.

Preventing Flooding: Tips for Homeowners and Business Owners

Taking proactive steps can minimize risks of flooding. Below are some practical actions you can take:

Use Sump Pumps: Install these devices to remove excess water from your basements, preventing floods. They must be maintained constantly for them to work well when needed.

Maintain Gutters and Downspouts: Regularly clean these systems to ensure that they divert water away from the foundation. Your house may be infiltrated with rainwater through clogged gutters that can cause overflow.

Seal Cracks and Openings: Checking for any openings in your foundation is necessary to prevent water seepage into your house. It’s a simple yet effective safeguarding mechanism for your basement.

Grading Your Property: A proper grade can help minimize water logging by ensuring that the earth on your compound slopes downwards from the foundation.

Installing Backwater Valves: By allowing water to go outside only, these valves will prevent sewer backups.

Water Damage to Your Car: Is It Covered?

Flooding can also cause massive damage to vehicles. If your car gets damaged by flooding, whether it’s covered under your insurance policy depends on the kind of coverage you have:

Comprehensive Coverage: This type of motor vehicle insurance usually covers water damage resulting from a flood. Its coverage extends to other non-collision related events like theft and vandalism.

Standard Collision Insurance: Water damage due to flooding is commonly not covered if you only have standard or liability coverage. It's important to review your auto insurance policy and think about adding comprehensive coverage in case you are concerned about the danger of flooding.

Contact us if you feel unsure about what coverage(s) you have.

Contact Us for More Information

If you have any questions about your insurance coverage or need to file a claim, feel free to contact PetleyHare or your insurance company. In these tough times, we are here for you and want to assure you of adequate coverage.

Water Damage Repair

Repairing water damage requires professional expertise and clear understanding of the necessary steps needed to restore the premises. For more information on how to engage in disaster clean-up and remediation, head over to our partners at DKI CRCS. They give a perception of flood restoration processes and tips on avoiding further damage.

Flooding is intimidating; but armed with the right knowledge and preparations, severe weather can’t penetrate your home or business. Be informed, be secure and ensure that you have updated insurance coverage that can handle whatever comes along.

For more details about safeguarding yourself against extreme weather conditions and flooding, look at the resources provided by the Insurance Bureau of Canada and insight on how severe weather impacts businesses provided by Canadian Underwriter.

When you come to Petley Hare Insurance Brokers, just know that we are with you through thick and thin. If you don't understand your plan or if you need help in starting a claim, we're always here to provide you with the best service. Contact us today!