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10 Tips to Protect Your Home from Flood Damage | Home Insurance

When it comes to protecting your home from potential flood damage, being proactive is key. Many homeowners only think about flood prevention after it’s too late. That’s why it’s crucial to take steps to safeguard your property before a disaster strikes. In this comprehensive guide, we will provide you with valuable insights and practical solutions to help prevent flood damage to your home. Additionally, we will explore the importance of flood insurance coverage and how it can protect you from financial loss.

Understanding Flood Insurance

While taking preventive measures is crucial, it’s important to acknowledge that some flooding events may still occur despite your best efforts. That’s where flood insurance coverage comes into play. Flood insurance protects you from financial loss caused by excessive rain, overflowing rivers, spring run-off, and melting snow. It’s important to note that not all types of flood damage are covered by insurance. For instance, damage caused by saltwater or groundwater seepage is typically not covered.

What is Flood Insurance?

Flood insurance is a specialized type of insurance that provides coverage specifically for damages caused by flooding. It is separate from standard homeowners insurance policies and must be purchased as a separate policy. Flood insurance covers both the structure of your home and its contents, providing financial protection in the event of flood-related damages.

Flood Insurance Coverage Limit

When purchasing flood insurance, it’s important to understand the coverage limits. The coverage limit refers to the maximum amount the insurance provider will pay for flood-related damages. This limit is usually determined based on the value of your home and its contents. It’s essential to assess the value of your property accurately and choose a coverage limit that adequately protects your assets.

Overland Water Coverage

Overland flooding is the leading cause of property damage and loss in Saskatchewan. Overland water coverage refers to ground flooding, where water touches the ground before entering your home. This type of coverage protects you from damage caused by excessive rain, overflowing rivers, spring run-off, and melting snow. When considering flood insurance, it’s crucial to understand the specific coverage limits and exclusions to ensure you have adequate protection for your home.

Preventive Measures to Safeguard Your Home

Seal Cracks to Prevent Water Infiltration

One of the simplest yet effective ways to reduce the risk of basement water damage is to seal cracks in your foundation walls and basement floors. By sealing existing cracks inside your home, you can create a barrier that prevents water from seeping in. This preventative measure can be done without the need for extensive excavation around your foundation, making it a convenient solution for homeowners.
Install Window Wells and Covers for Added Protection

Window wells, which are excavated spaces around below-grade windows, can significantly improve drainage and prevent windowsill rot. Reinforced with galvanized steel or polyethylene shields, they support the earth and block debris and moisture from reaching your basement windows. Installing window wells and adding covers or plastic sheeting as inexpensive barriers provide an extra layer of protection against potential flood damage.
Ensure Proper Drainage with Weeping Tile Systems

A weeping tile, also known as a foundation drain or perimeter tile, is a porous pipe used for underground water collection. These pipes, typically made of corrugated plastic with small slits or weep holes, are buried around your foundation to drain moisture. To ensure your home has proper drainage, it’s essential to direct the weeping tile water to a sump pit and sump pump installed in your basement. This setup allows for the safe removal of excess water from your home.
Disconnect Downspouts from the Weeping Tile System

It’s important to disconnect your eavestrough downspouts from these systems to prevent overwhelming your weeping tile or sanitary sewer drain. Downspouts should be redirected at least six feet away from your home, leading the water to a more absorbent surface like your lawn or garden. Be cautious not to direct the water towards your driveway or sidewalk, as it can create hazardous icy conditions during winter.
Install a Sump Pit and Sump Pump

When your weeping tile system is connected to the sanitary or storm sewer drain, heavy rainfall can lead to increased water flow into the municipal sewer system, potentially causing a sewer backup. To mitigate this risk, install a sump pit and sump pump in your basement. The sump pump will move water from the pit to the surface, where it can safely run off. It’s crucial to consult with your municipal government to determine the appropriate pathway for water runoff.
Backup Power for Your Sump Pump

Power outages during heavy storms can render your sump pump useless, leaving your home vulnerable to flooding. To ensure your sump pump operates even during power failures, connect it to a reliable backup power source, such as a battery or generator. This backup power solution will provide peace of mind and protect your home when needed.
Protect Your Home with a Backwater Valve

A backwater valve is a crucial component that prevents sewage from flowing back into your house when the sewer system becomes overwhelmed. While some municipalities require the installation of backwater valves, others strongly recommend it. If your home doesn’t have one, consult a professional plumber to assess your plumbing system and determine if your home qualifies for a backwater valve. Installing this device can save you from costly damages and even qualify you for an insurance discount, depending on your insurer.
Proper Disposal of Fats, Oils, and Grease

Fats, oils, and grease can accumulate over time in your pipes, creating blockages that can lead to sewer backups. To prevent this issue, avoid pouring these substances down your drain. Dispose of them with your regular food waste instead, or try to find a hazardous waste disposal near you, such as the Regina Hazardous Materials Depot. Adopting this simple practice can significantly reduce the risk of clogged pipes and potential flood damage.
Regularly Clean Eavestroughs and Downspouts

Cleaning your eavestroughs at least once a year is essential to prevent clogging and ensure proper water flow. Leaves and debris can accumulate and obstruct water flow, increasing the risk of water flowing back towards your property. Keep storm sewer grates clear of leaves, trash, ice, and snow. Contact your municipality for assistance if you notice repeated clogging of your street’s sewer grates.
Utilize Strategic Landscaping to Divert Water

Strategic landscaping techniques, such as sloping hills and strategically placed shrubbery, can help divert water away from your home, keeping your basement dry. By creating natural pathways for water runoff, you can minimize the risk of flood damage. Consider consulting with a professional landscaper to design a landscape that effectively manages water flow around your property.

Protecting your home from flood damage requires a proactive approach. By implementing these preventive measures and obtaining comprehensive flood insurance coverage, including overland water coverage, you can minimize the risk of flood-related issues and protect your home and financial well-being. Stay prepared and protected with the right flood insurance coverage for your home. Remember, prevention is always better than dealing with the aftermath of a flood. Take action today to safeguard your home and peace of mind.

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