As Canadians, we’ve experienced first-hand how the effects of frequent, extreme weather can lead to sudden and accidental water damage. It’s the number one cause of home insurance claims.
Where is all this water coming from?
There are several ways water can suddenly get into your home:
- Sewer, septic and water backup: With sudden snowmelts or heavy rain, sewer systems and catch basins can fill too quickly or get blocked, causing water or sewage to back up or overflow through inside drains and sump pit drainage systems.
- Flooding: If you live near a creek, river or lake, the water levels can change suddenly when snow melts or severe storms hit.
- Storm surge: This is the abnormal rise in lake or ocean water levels during a storm, when the height of the water goes above the normal level. There’s also a danger of waves caused by a storm or hurricane.
- Surface water: The buildup of water caused by extreme weather events, such as heavy rainfall, fast snow melts, and when extreme storms bring more water than the drains can handle.
- Rising of the water table: This is when an underground area is full of water that then rises to the surface. Underground water can also cause damage by putting pressure on sidewalks, driveways, foundations, walls and floors, causing leaks or sudden breaks.
Flood safety: before, during and after
Learn the best way to protect your home and family from the effects of flooding and reduce potential damage to your property like a flooded basement.
More ways to stop water damage
Find out how to prevent water damage to your home at water.cooperators.ca. Take a quick assessment to determine the water risk in your area and get tips to prevent and recover from water damage.
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