Rain and mild temperatures in the weekend forecast: Intact Insurance reminds you that a few simple precautions could help you avoid the cost and inconvenience of water damage

MONTREAL, Jan. 10, 2014 /CNW/ - So far this January, the weather has had us on a roller coaster: after the freezing rain, heavy snow and Arctic temperatures of the past few days, it looks as though we're heading into rain and above-seasonal temperatures.

According to the latest forecast, several regions of Quebec may be dealing with another rapid thaw in the coming days, as rain combines with rising temperatures.

Water damage prevention tips
With this in mind, Intact Insurance would like to remind you of a few simple things you can do to minimize the risk of water damage in your home:

• Clear eaves troughs of any obstruction that could keep water from flowing to the downspout.
• Make sure that the water run-off from downspouts is at least two metres away from the foundations.
• Shovel around doors and basement windows.
• If water is accumulating along the foundations, break up any ice that may be keeping it from running off.
• If necessary, clear ice and snow off the roof. Use a roof rake or hire a qualified professional.

Water: the #1 cause of insurance claims
Did you know that water damage is the leading cause of home insurance claims, ranking far ahead of fire and theft?

We suggest contacting your insurance broker to go over what your policy covers and to find out what additional protection is available for loss or damage caused by water leaking in through your roof, doors, windows, or foundations, or caused by a sewer back-up.

To learn more about the new realities of our changing climate and how we can adapt, visit insuranceisevolving.com.

Drive safely
This weekend's rain is likely to make roads slippery at times, so be extra careful if you need to take the car somewhere. If road conditions deteriorate, why not postpone non-essential trips until later? Give it some thought!

We're there for you when you need us, 24/7
If an unforeseen event does occur, contact your broker immediately for information and advice. Note that you can also count on us for support through our 24/7 Claims Service at 1 866 464 2424.

About Intact Insurance
Intact Insurance is Canada's largest home, auto and business insurance company, the choice of more than four million consumers. Its coast-to-coast presence and its strong relationship with insurance brokers mean the company can provide the outstanding service, comfort and continuity customers deserve.

Intact Insurance is a member company of Intact Financial Corporation (TSX: IFC).
www.intactinsurance.com

 

SOURCE: Intact Insurance

Contact: Alexandre Royer
Senior Communications Consultant
514 282 6817 extension 4073
[email protected]