Basement flooding causes millions of dollars in insurance claims every year in Canada, with an estimated 30,000 to 40,000 incidents annually.It doesn’t just result in costly repairs; it can also cause permanent property damage and significantly lower your home or business’s property value.What causes basement flooding? Generally, there are two main causes of basement flooding: Common causes of drainage failure Common causes of sewer backup Preventing water damage caused by basement flooding Some causes of basement flooding are out of our control, but there are things property owners can do to help protect themselves against this risk.

1.Ask an expert Bring a licensed plumber into your property to complete an investigation.Every home is different, so following standards and tips from others may not work in your case.

Someone who’s well-versed in this area will provide you with insight on the specific nature of your plumbing to ensure you’re taking the right steps to avoid any potential damages.Ensure you choose a plumber who’s been certified.2.

Seal foundation cracks After speaking to an expert, you may discover vulnerabilities in your property’s foundation, walls or floor.Sealing all visible cracks will help prevent water from seeping in, reducing the likelihood of basement flooding.3.

Keep storm sewers clear When storm sewer entry points are blocked or clogged, it prevents storm water from being able to properly drain, which increases the chances of city flooding.Make sure the sewers surrounding your property are clear of leaves, garbage, ice and other debris that could prevent water from draining.4.

Maintain your eavestroughs and downspouts Clearing eavestroughs and downspouts regularly helps prevent water buildup and reduces the risk of basement flooding.Make sure you’re keeping an eye on the buildup, especially in the spring and fall, and clean/ clear them out to avoid any blockages.5.

Be mindful of what goes down the drain When preparing food or washing dishes, try to avoid allowing any food remnants, fats, oils, or grease to go down the drain.These often build up inside your pipes and result in blockages.6.

Reduce water usage during heavy rainfall If there’s a big rain or snowstorm forecasted on a particular day, try to avoid excessive use of water.Wait to do your laundry the next day and keep showers as short as possible.The more stress you put on your municipal sewage system, the more likely a flood becomes.

Protect yourself and your property with insurance Basement flooding can lead to costly repairs and downtime.Make sure you have the right insurance coverage to mitigate these costs if you ever experience a flood.Visit our commercial property insurance page to learn more about how the appropriate coverage can help you recover after a loss.