Ground Water is an optional coverage for purchase for homeowner insurance policies. Ground Water coverage will offer protection for events when ground water enters your home suddenly and accidentally through basement flooring, walls, slab and foundation.
Overland Water is an optional coverage water damage caused by overflow of a lake or river, heavy rain or rapid snowmelt that enters your home from a point at or above ground level.
Talk to Your Local Insurance Professional About Coverage for Emergency Water Damage Cleanup and Repair Services
It is important ensure you have all of the water damage coverage you need and that the details of your coverage (or limitations) are explained to you in a clear and concise manner. Speaking to a local insurance agent or insurance broker can help - they are licensed professionals who work with you to provide the best insurance coverage for you and your family.
Know What Types of Water Damage Area Covered by Insurance
Talk to your insurance representative to make sure you have appropriate coverage. Be aware that:
Sudden and accidental bursting of plumbing pipes and basement flood cleanup is generally covered by all home insurance policies. However, damage may not be covered when freezing causes the escape of water.
Historically in Canada, home insurance policies haven’t covered loss or damage caused by overland flooding, which occurs when bodies of fresh water, such as rivers or dams overflow onto dry land. This is no longer the case in Canada. Many insurers now offer residential overland flood coverage for the majority of homes across the country. This coverage is optional and based on risk. Commonly, this coverage is combined with sewer back up coverage, which is also optional. Even if you don’t live by a lake or river, your home could still experience flood damage in a variety of different ways. Check with your insurance representative on cost and availability for your home.
Water damage in a basement due to a sewer backup is only covered if specific sewer backup coverage has been purchased.
Damage to homes caused by storm damage or wind is usually covered. This includes damage caused by flying debris or falling branches or trees, or damage caused by water entering through sudden openings caused by wind or hail.
If comprehensive or all perils coverage has been purchased, damage to vehicles from wind, hail or water is usually covered. This coverage is not mandatory, so check your policy.
In certain circumstances, homeowners who are unable to return home due to insurable damage are entitled to additional living expenses.
4 Ways to Prepare for Water Damage
Basement flooding from sewer backup, ground water or overland flooding is costly for homeowners, businesses, municipalities and insurance companies. There are steps you can take to help mitigate risk - from ensuring that important documents are not stored in your basement, to installing a sump pump, there are many ways to be proactive such as:
Keep a current and detailed home inventory.
If your neighborhood is prone to flooding, take precautions throughout your house and property.
Assemble a disaster safety kit.
Create a 72-hour emergency preparedness plan for your family.
How to Start a Water Damage Claim
Call your insurance representative or company. Most insurers have a 24-hour claims service. Be as detailed as possible when providing information.
List all damaged or destroyed items. If possible, assemble proofs of purchase, photos, receipts and warranties. Take photos of damage incurred and keep damaged items, unless they pose a health hazard.
Keep all receipts related to cleanup and living expenses if you’ve been displaced. Ask your insurance representative about what expenses you may be entitled to and for what period of time.
If you need emergency services, you can call SELECT Restoration for emergency response or fill out this form.
24-Hour Emergency Water Cleanup in the Toronto Area
SELECT Restoration Services is the restoration company in Toronto you can trust for reliable, comprehensive basement flood cleanup services. Would you know what to do after discovering water in your basement? We can help. If you need fast water cleanup and restoration services in the Greater Toronto Area, including sewage cleanup, sanitization and dehumidification services, make us your FIRST CALL in an emergency.
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We are available 24 hours a day, 7 days a week to provide the guidance, expertise and personalized care needed to ensure your life gets back to normal after unexpected property damage. Our IICRC trained and certified technicians work by your side providing efficient water damage damage restoration services with expert guidance.
SELECT Restoration Services
261 Bering Avenue, Unit 2
Toronto, ON
M8Z 3A5
☎️ Tel: 416-236-0660
☎️ 24-Hour: 1-833-24EMERG
📢 CALL THEM FIRST!