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Spring, summer and fall of 2009 have all brought pounding storms, and with it increased claim activity across Canada. Surprisingly only 32% of Canadians realize that water damage is the most likely threat to their home, according to a 2009 survey conducted by Léger Marketing on behalf of Allstate Insurance Company of Canada. In fact, since 2006, Allstate has seen a significant increase in water damage claims.
According to the Canada Mortgage and Housing Corporation, there are an estimated 40,000 cases of water damage per year. “Water damage is definitely one of the most common home insurance claims we see. There are lots of ways to help protect your home but unfortunately, there are also many ways this kind of damage can occur,” says Tony Irwin, Allstate Insurance Company of Canada spokesperson.
Water damage can happen at any time of year; most often caused by: heavy rainfall; sewer backup; burst pipes; leaky roofs and appliances; or rapidly melting snow and ice. To help homeowners fend off water damage Allstate Canada offers these tips to help you stay safe and dry:
Be Prepared
- Regularly check the weather sealant around windows and all ground level doors. If you have a garage, don’t forget to check the weather seal around the door as well.
- Ensure efficient drainage around your home: keep eavestroughs, downspouts and other drainage systems clear of leaf debris and other blockages.
- Don’t store important personal documents and expensive items, such as electronic equipment, in the basement. If that is not possible, ensure items are elevated at least a foot above the floor.
- Have a professional contractor check the condition of your roof regularly and repair as needed. Be sure the inspection includes the flashing and seals around chimneys and skylights.
- Check your insurance coverage to know what’s covered in case of water damage.
- Visit www.BeReadyToday.ca for more information on how to prepare for unexpected emergencies.
Respond to Possible Water Damage
- Do NOT attempt to shut off electricity if any water is present. Water and live electrical wires can be fatal. Call your hydro company immediately.
- If you are sure no water has yet entered the home, and it is safe to do so, turn off all power at the main electrical box and turn off the basement furnace.
- If your home is flooded, keep out of any standing water – hazards from floating debris, sewer contamination and slippery footing can make wading in flood waters exceptionally dangerous.
After the Damage
- Avoid turning on the power in your home after significant water damage. Ask your hydro company for assistance.
- If possible, record details of any damage BEFORE you clean up. Take photos or video to help with your insurance company’s assessment. Most importantly don’t throw away any belongings before your insurance company has a chance to inspect your home.
For more information about safe guarding your home against water damage or to arrange an interview with Tony Irwin Allstate’s official spokesperson, please contact:
Karen Nussbaum
Thornley Fallis Communications
(416) 515-7517, ext. 334 / (647) 294-3321
nussbaum@thornleyfallis.com
