What are the Common Sources of Water Damage?

• Basement flooding from either sewer backup or sump pump failure;
• Burst pipes from aging or frozen plumbing systems;
• Leaks and overflowing of domestic water containers such as toilets, sinks, tubs, etc.
• Leaks and overflowing of domestic appliances such as dishwashers, hot water tanks, etc.
• Leaks from roof material due to heavy rain or plugged eaves trough;
• Leak from home’s foundation due to poor lot drainage or failure of weeping tile system.

WHAT’S THE DAMAGE?
Property: Building, Contents, Resale Value of Home
Health: Mould, Mildew, Dampness

WHAT YOU CAN DO – CHECKLIST

BASEMENT
• Seal cement floors
• Utilize water proof padding under carpet
• Professionally repair foundation cracks
• Seal around windows and door wells
• Have backwater valve installed professionally
• Disconnect downspouts that are connected to sewer system
• Have downspouts extend 6 feet from foundation and away from the house
• Install proper weeping tile system for grading
• Install a battery backup source for sump pump
• Keep valuable items stored in plastic bins or off floor level
• Replace aging and corroded pipes
• Install a water alarm/shut off system
• Avoid pouring fats and grease down drain

DOMESTIC WATER CONTAINERS AND APPLIANCES
• Replace aging items
• Never leave house with taps or appliances running
• Replace plastic connection lines with steel braided hoses
• Have hot water tank, softner, etc. serviced regularily

ROOF
• Replace worn and aging shingles
• Use water barrier under shingles
• Clean eavestroughs twice yearly, spring and fall

MUNICIPAL PROGRAMS
• Many municipalities offer programs to help subsidize and prevent water damage due to basement flooding.

FOR MORE INFORMATION
• Ontario has a disaster relief assistance program in
the event all other avenues of compensation are
exhausted (www.mah.gov.on.ca)

• Other informative website:
Institute for Catastrophic Loss Reduction www.iclr.org