Take Action Burlington

This year, winter returned to Burlington! Kids tobogganed, built snow sculptures and tunnels, and even had a snow day! Meanwhile many adults shoveled, and shoveled, and shoveled some more. However, I know some took advantage of the winter weather such as the person I saw cross-country skiing on one of the City’s downtown trails.

With the amount of snow we’ve had, and the warm temperatures we are currently experiencing, the Insurance Bureau of Canada wants you to be prepared for the winter thaw!

10 tips to help protect your home and property

1. Ensure your downspouts and eavestroughs are clear of debris and that they direct water away from your home.
2. Keep your basement floor drains clear.
3. Clear the snow and ice from your walkways and driveway to help give the thawing snow a path to drain away.
4. Remove the snow from window wells and shovel the snow away from the foundation.
5. Try to clear street storm drains of leaves, debris and ice to help in proper street drainage.
6. Inspect your foundation for cracks, where possible. Fill in any gaps with suitable exterior sealant (hire a professional if necessary).
7. Move valuable items out of your basement to higher levels in your home.
8. If you’re heading out on the road, clear the snow and ice from your vehicle before you leave. Drive according to the conditions and never drive over flooded roads.
9. If flooding is imminent, and it is safe to do so, shut off electricity to the areas of the home that may be affected, and use sandbags or install flood shields or built-up barriers to help prevent water from entering through basement windows and doors.
10. Use salt, sand or ice melter to help keep walkways clear of ice as the runoff may refreeze and produce slippery surfaces and result in slips and falls.

How can I protect my home from flooding?

Check out the City’s flood prevention page at Burlington.ca/FloodPrevention for programs available through the City of Burlington, Halton Region, and Conservation Halton.

What happens if I experience water damage?

Ice dam damage

Standard homeowners’ insurance policies commonly cover sudden and accidental water damage caused by ice dams. However, ongoing or repeated damage is considered a long-term maintenance issue and may not be covered under a home insurance policy.

Sewer backup damage

Water damage in a basement due to sewer backup is typically only covered if you have purchased specific, optional sewer backup coverage.

Overland flood damage

This is only covered if you have purchased specific, optional overland flood coverage. However, if you live in a known flood plain, these coverages may be limited or unavailable.

Water damage caused by indoor plumbing, heating or air conditioning

This form of damage is usually covered by a standard home insurance policy.

Damage caused by freezing-thawing indoor pipes

Damage for pipes in the heated portions of your home is typically covered by a standard home insurance policy. However, if you’re away during the heating season, you might need to have someone check on your property and keep heat in areas of your home with exposed pipes. Speak with your insurance representative about how often your property needs to be checked.

Flood damage to your vehicle 

If you have purchased comprehensive or all perils auto insurance, damage to vehicles from water is usually covered. This coverage is not mandatory, so check your policy.

How do I report flooding?

To report flooding on roads, call 905-335-7777 or email city@burlington.ca. If there is immediate danger, dial 9-1-1.

If your basement floods from overland or sanitary sewer back-ups, please call 3-1-1. Operators will help forward your concern to the appropriate specialists and make sure someone follows up with you, as needed.

For more information on flooding, please visit Burlington.ca/Flood.

Take Action Burlington! Protect your home and property from flooding.

Thanks to the Insurance Bureau of Canada for providing spring thaw tips and insurance coverage information.