Water damage claims are on the rise, with annual costs estimated at $140 million per year in Canada. With the combination of snow melting and rain falling, spring is typically the wettest time of year. Avoid flooding issues in your home by following our handy spring maintenance checklist.

1. Clear gutters and downspouts. Repair leaks and loose gutters, and make sure water can flow off your roof and away from your foundation and basement windows, at least 1.8 metres (6 feet). Direct the flow toward the street or backyard.
   
   
2. Make sure your sump pump and/or back flow valves are working properly before the snow begins to melt.
   
   
3. Clear drainage ditches and culverts. Remove all debris to keep water flowing into sewers.
   
   
4. Wait until all danger of frost has passed to re-open the valves to outside hose connections to avoid pipes freezing and bursting.
   
   
5. Make sure the land around your home slopes away from the foundation. Also, check that your sidewalks, patios, decks and driveway haven’t shifted to cause water to drain back towards your house.
   
   
6. Plan ahead when you’re remodelling to minimize damage should you have a basement flood in the future. Install ceramic tile and other impermeable finishes to minimize damage and make cleanup easier. Choose furniture with legs that keep the fabric away from the floor. If you need carpeting, consider using area rugs, which are easier to remove and clean or replace in case of a flood.

For more information about coverage available to protect you in the event of water damage*, visit our Home Insurance page.

*Extended Water Coverage is not available in Quebec.