Aviva Canada shares flood insurance information

With flooding a major concern these past few days, Aviva Canada has shared some pertinent flood insurance information in a recent information release.

According to the insurer, the number of flood-related claims from the first quarter of 2019 is about eight times higher than the first quarter of 2016. Aviva Canada also noted that in the period between April 18 and April 28, it has seen hundreds of claims from consumers.

The firm offered a reminder that it was the first insurance company to introduce overland water protection, which covers damage from freshwater sources such as rivers, heavy rainfall, and even snowmelt. Currently, more than 50% of homeowners in Ontario have purchased Aviva’s Overland Water Endorsement.

The insurer noted that flood coverage was not considered a requirement for most residences in Ontario, because flooding was typically thought of to occur only to properties next to a river or a large body of water – an oversight that hurt several homeowners.

To help homeowners reduce the risk of flooding in their homes, Aviva has prepared a list of helpful tips:

• Store valuables upstairs and away from the basement.
• Turn off electricity to areas of the home that may be impacted by flood.
• Install floor shields or use sandbags on basement windows and doors.
• Consider growing plants near your home that resist soil erosion.
• Ensure lot grading directs water away from your home.
• Direct downspouts away from the house foundation.
• Install a sump pump with a backup battery.
• Install a backwater valve.
• Speak with your broker or agent to confirm if you have the right insurance.