Water damage claims account for approximately 40% of all home insurance claims, and the average cost of such claims has risen 117% over the last 10 years. More Canadians invest in creating another living area in their basements; the greater value in belongings in a high risk area of the home has contributed to these increases. Here are some ways to protect such property:

• Raise any personal belongings that you have stored in the basement off the floor to prevent potential water damage.
• If your basement is unfinished, consider having all valuable items raised on 2X4’s or some other way of providing clearance.
• If your basement is finished and you’ve experienced flooding, get as many things as you can lifted off the floor or carpet.
• If you have a sump pump, make sure it is operating properly and discharging water at least 9 meters from the house foundation, but not running toward someone else’s foundation.
• Inspect your basement ceiling(s) for leaks after outside garden hose supply line(s) have been turned on in case of a frozen/burst pipe over the winter. Call a licensed plumber immediately if a leak is detected.