IBC offers tips to protect homeowners as Manitoba and Saskatchewan on high alert for spring flooding

WINNIPEG, April 4, 2013 /CNW/ - Manitoba and Saskatchewan are on high alert for increased spring flooding potential on the Red, Souris, Pembina, Assiniboine, Saskatchewan and Qu'Appelle rivers, and in the Interlake. This news prompts Insurance Bureau of Canada (IBC) to remind homeowners to take precautions now to reduce the potential of property damage from water and other hazards.

"It's important to take preventative action against severe weather during the spring thaw as damage caused by overland flooding is not covered by home insurance policies anywhere in Canada," says Bill Adams, Vice-President, Western and Pacific, IBC. "Sewer backup coverage, however, is usually available and can be purchased as an add-on to policies. Consumers should speak to their insurance representative to ensure they have the best coverage for their needs."

Due to increased March snowfall and lower temperatures, many regions are experiencing significant build-up of snow and ice on roofs. Some insurance policies cover damage from water entering a home while others do not. Check your insurance policy or talk to your insurance representative for more information. If you feel the snow and ice needs to be removed, ensure it is done by a professional.

IBC has developed a number of programs to help homeowners learn about how to protect their properties in the face of increasingly severe weather.

IBC recommends these helpful tips to protect your home

• Clear snow about three to five feet away from the house foundation to prevent leaks.
• Examine attic for frost accumulation. Check roof for ice dams or icicles. If there is excessive frost or staining of the underside of the roof, or ice dams on the roof surface, consult the tips from Canada Mortgage and Housing Corporation for practical solutions.
• Move valuable items from the basement to upper floors.
• Check sidewalks, patios, decks and driveways to make sure they haven't settled over time and are causing water to drain toward your house.
• Clear your eaves troughs of debris and if possible, help clear catch basins near your home.
• Keep water out of window sills.
• Make sure downspouts extend at least six feet from your basement wall. Water should drain away from your house and neighbouring homes toward the street, backyard or back lane.

Insurance coverage

• Prepare a detailed home inventory. This will help you and your insurer keep track of your valuables in the event of a loss.
• Talk to your insurance representative to make sure you have appropriate coverage.
• Sudden and accidental bursting of plumbing pipes and appliances is covered by all residential policies. However, damage may not be covered when freezing causes the escape of water.
• Water damage in a basement due to a sewer backup is only covered if specific sewer backup coverage has been purchased.
• In certain circumstances, homeowners who are unable to return home due to insurable damage are entitled to additional living expenses.
• Overland flooding resulting in water overflowing onto dry land and causing damage is not covered in residential properties in Canada. (Speak to your insurance representative for more information on how you can protect your home).

About Insurance Bureau of Canada
Insurance Bureau of Canada is the national industry association representing Canada's private home, car and business insurers. Its member companies represent 90% of the property and casualty (P&C) insurance market in Canada. The P&C insurance industry employs over 115,000 Canadians, pays more than $7 billion in taxes to the federal, provincial and municipal governments, and has a total premium base of $44 billion.

To view media releases and other information, visit the media section of IBC's website at www.ibc.ca. Follow IBC on Twitter @InsuranceBureau or like us on Facebook.

If you require more information, IBC spokespeople are available to discuss the details in this media release.

SOURCE: INSURANCE BUREAU OF CANADA

To schedule an interview, please contact:

Helen Lialias
Media Relations Officer
Insurance Bureau of Canada
416-362-2031 ext. 4312
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Steve Kee
Director, Media Relations
Insurance Bureau of Canada
416-362-2031 ext. 4387
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