Insurance Bureau of Canada reminds Ontarians to protect their homes: Overland flooding not covered by insurance

    TORONTO, April 1 /CNW/ - With lots of snow on and around homes, and the
spring thaw on the horizon, Insurance Bureau of Canada is reminding Ontario's
homeowners to protect their belongings against overland flooding.
    "Most people can't wait to hang up the snow shovel," said Bonnie Lysyk,
Vice-President, Ontario, IBC. "But before they do, homeowners should take the
time to make sure the spring thaw won't put their properties in danger."
    IBC offers these tips: To minimize the risk of flooding, pick up that
shovel one last time and get snow away from the house, especially basement
windows. Check your property for obstructions that could prevent melting snow
from draining away from the house properly, and clear a path for the water.
Also check catch basins on the street to ensure they are not obstructed.
    Lysyk also urged homeowners to move valuable items located in their
basements to higher ground to prevent water damage during the thaw.
    Lysyk said: "It's important to take preventative action at this time of
year because damage caused by overland flooding is not covered by home
insurance policies. Sewer back-up coverage, however, is usually available and
can be purchased as an add-on to policies."
    IBC also reminds consumers that damages due to a roof collapse caused by
an accumulation of snow and ice is covered by most comprehensive home
insurance policies. IBC recommends that you do not try to clear snow from the
roof yourself. Leave this task to a snow removal professional that has the
proper equipment and appropriate liability insurance.
    Consumers are urged to contact their insurance representative to confirm
their coverage. For more information, homeowners can also call the Insurance
Bureau of Canada Consumer Information Centre at 1-800-387-2880.
    Insurance Bureau of Canada is the national industry association
representing Canada's private home, car and business insurers. Its member
companies represent nearly 95% of the property and casualty (P&C) insurance
market in Canada. The P&C insurance industry employs over 104,000 Canadians,
pays more than $6 billion in taxes to the federal and provincial governments,
and has a total premium base of $35 billion.
    To view news releases and information, visit the media section of IBC's
website at www.ibc.ca.

For further information: or to arrange an interview please contact:
James Geuzebroek, [phone] ext. 4364