More and more water damage

In fact, for the past 10 years, water damage has become the leading cause of home insurance claims: water seepage through the roof or windows, sewer back-up, spring floods, overflowing bathtubs, leaking water heaters, etc. In 2019, 47% of claims paid out in home insurance were for water damage.

We all bear the brunt of nature's rages. However, there are ways you can protect yourself and ensure that the vagaries of Mother Nature have less of an impact on our homes.

Tips to help you protect and minimize water damage

• Have your roof checked to make sure it is in good condition.
• Check the condition of your windows regularly.
• Make sure your property slopes away from the house.
• Have a check valve installed in the basement.
• Make sure your downspouts drain away from your home's foundation and your neighbour's house. They must direct water away from the house towards the street, your back yard or back lane.

The basic home insurance policy usually covers some perils related to water damage. As a general rule, this represents damage caused inside the home, including overflowing sanitary fixtures or appliances (washing machine, toilet, bathtub, dishwasher, etc.)

Other types of damage can be insured by adding extra coverage under the policy. This is the case for damage caused from outside the home, such as seepage, sewer back-up and flooding.

Find out more about covered perils.