Flood Insurance in Ontario: What Homeowners Need to Know
Spring in Ontario brings warmer temperatures, melting snow, and heavy rainfall. While these seasonal changes are a welcome sign of the end of winter, they also increase the risk of flooding. Water damage accounts for 48% of all interior property damage in Canada and remains the leading cause of home insurance claims (Canadian Underwriter).
Many homeowners are unaware that their standard home insurance policy may not fully cover flood-related damage. Understanding your risks and securing the right coverage can help protect your home and finances.
The Risks of Spring Flooding
Spring flooding in Ontario can take several forms, each posing significant risks to homeowners:
Overland Flooding: This occurs when water from heavy rainfall, snowmelt, or overflowing rivers enters your home from the outside. It can seep through doors, basement windows, or foundation cracks, causing costly damage.
Sewer Backup: Heavy rain and melting snow can overwhelm municipal sewer systems, resulting in sewage and wastewater backing into homes. This type of damage can be hazardous to your health and expensive to repair.
Groundwater Seepage: While not always covered under insurance, water can accumulate in the soil and leak into basements, causing structural damage and mould growth.
What Standard Home Insurance Covers (And What It Doesn’t)
Many homeowners mistakenly believe their standard home insurance policy includes all types of water damage. However, most basic policies do not cover overland flooding or sewer backups. Here’s what you need to know:
Typically Covered:
Sudden and accidental leaks from plumbing, appliances, or burst pipes.
Water damage from fire suppression efforts.
Not Covered Without Additional Endorsements:
Overland flooding (water entering from outside due to rainfall or melting snow).
Sewer backup (sewage or wastewater entering through drains).
Damage caused by poor maintenance or long-term leaks.
The Benefits of Adding Water Damage Protection
Given the growing risks of severe weather and flooding, many insurance providers offer optional flood insurance and sewer backup endorsements to help protect homeowners. Adding these coverages to your policy provides:
Financial Protection: Repairs from flooding can cost tens of thousands of dollars. Proper coverage ensures you won’t have to bear the financial burden alone.
Peace of Mind: Knowing your home is protected allows you to focus on recovery rather than stress over out-of-pocket expenses.
Increased Property Value: Homes in flood-prone areas with insurance coverage are often more attractive to buyers.
Protect Your Home Before Flooding Happens
While insurance is essential, prevention is just as important. Consider these tips to reduce your risk:
Install a sump pump and backup battery.
Keep eavestroughs and downspouts clear.
Seal foundation cracks and basement windows.
Elevate valuables in your basement.
Talk to Your Insurance Broker Today
Flooding is unpredictable, but your insurance coverage doesn’t have to be. At Moore Hemsworth Insurance Group, we help Ontario homeowners understand their risks and secure the right protection. Contact us today to discuss your flood insurance options and ensure your home is covered before the next storm hits.
Have questions or need a quote? Call our Dublin office at 519-345-2512, our Listowel office at 519-291-3920, or email mhins@mhins.ca. You can also visit our Home Insurance page to learn more.