April showers may bring more than flowers - IBC's Top 10 tips for reducing your risk of water damage

TORONTO, April 8, 2015 /CNW/ - With April comes rain, and while rain gets rid of the snow and greens the grass, it can damage homes. That's why Insurance Bureau of Canada (IBC) is offering Ontarians its Top 10 tips for reducing the risk of water damage.

"As we await the summer months, we will likely see a lot of rain," said Ralph Palumbo, Vice-President, Ontario, IBC. "To help protect your property and car from water damage, check out IBC's tips below."

IBC's Top 10 tips to reduce the risk of water damage are:

1. Keep all of your floor drains clear of obstructions.
2. Clear and adjust your eavestroughs and downspouts so that water is directed away from your home.
3. If you're planning to be away from your home for an extended period, arrange for someone to check your property in case there is severe weather.
4. Ensure there is proper grading around your home so surface water flows away from your foundation.
5. Install a sump pump or make sure the one you have is working properly.
6. Install backflow valves or plugs in drains, toilets and other sewer connections.
7. Elevate the furnace, hot water heater and electrical panel in the basement or relocate them to a higher level.
8. Store important documents and irreplaceable personal objects where they cannot be damaged by water.
9. Do not finish areas, such as the basement, that may be prone to flooding.
10. If you have a finished basement and it's susceptible to flooding, don't keep any expensive items there.

What's covered?

• Water that enters the home by seeping through windows, siding or the foundation is typically not covered.
• Most insurance companies do not cover overland flooding. Overland flooding occurs when water from rivers, streams or other water bodies flows onto dry land.
• A sewer backup may be covered by home insurance policies if this coverage was purchased as an add-on.
• Water damage to vehicles is usually covered by comprehensive or all perils auto insurance. This coverage isn't mandatory so check your policy.

"If you have questions about your policy, ask your insurance representative or contact IBC's Consumer Information Centre at 1-844-2-ASK-IBC," adds Palumbo. "We're here to help."

About Insurance Bureau of Canada
Insurance Bureau of Canada (IBC) is the national industry association representing Canada's private home, auto and business insurers. Its member companies make up 90% of the property and casualty (P&C) insurance market in Canada. For more than 50 years, IBC has worked with governments across the country to help make affordable home, auto and business insurance available for all Canadians. IBC supports the vision of consumers and governments trusting, valuing and supporting the private P&C insurance industry. It champions key issues and helps educate consumers on how best to protect their homes, cars, businesses and properties.

P&C insurance touches the lives of nearly every Canadian and plays a critical role in keeping businesses safe and the Canadian economy strong. It employs more than 118,000 Canadians, pays $6.7 billion in taxes and has a total premium base of $48 billion.  

For media releases and more information, visit IBC's Media Centre at www.ibc.ca. Follow IBC on Twitter @InsuranceBureau and @IBC_Ontario or like us on Facebook. If you have a question about home, auto or business insurance, contact IBC's Consumer Information Centre at 1-844-2-ASK-IBC.

If you require more information, IBC spokespeople are available to discuss the details in this media release.

SOURCE Insurance Bureau of Canada

Image with caption: "IBC Top 10: Tips for reducing your risk of water damage (CNW Group/Insurance Bureau of Canada)". Image available at: http://photos.newswire.ca/images/download/20150408_C4445_PHOTO_EN_14057.jpg

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