Protect Your Home From Water Damage

According to the Insurance Bureau of Canada, water damage is now the leading cause of home insurance claims.

Changing weather patterns, aging sewer systems and substantial investments in finished basements has made water damage one of the most common reasons people make claims on their home insurance.

Do you know if you have water damage coverage? Are you adequately protected?

Have a professional install a sump pump permanently, and in case of loss of power purchase a battery backup that will ensure your sump pump will continue to run.
Pumps can malfunction or burn out so it is recommended that you test the sump pump regularly, and before rainfall and spring thaw conditions.
If you have any questions about your insurance coverage, contact your broker to review your policy as many companies limit this amount to repair or replace your basement.
If you haven’t purchased water damage coverage, consider buying it or increasing your limits to reflect the value of your basement or other renovation investment.
If you have invested in basement renovations, take proper inventory of what you have and update your coverage if necessary.
Keep floor drains unobstructed, and store valuables in storage containers on raised shelves
Clean your eavestroughs, check your shingles, and have your septic system serviced regulary.

ALWAYS CHECK YOUR BASEMENT FOR LEAKS AFTER HEAVY RAINFALL OR RAPID THAWS.For more information on water damage or to review coverage, contact your Cooke Advisor today.