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Portage Mutual believes in the power of loss prevention. There are many different things a homeowner and business owner can do to protect their property from loss. Some common losses applicable to you are water related losses, sewer back-up water damage, windstorm and hail, and, of course, fire. Some of these losses are automatically included under your insurance policy, however some types of losses require you to purchase additional protection.
Disaster/Recovery Planning Toolkit
Ask your independent broker today about how your insurance policy will respond to common property losses and what additional coverages you should have.
Water Damage claims are on the rise in Canada and make up a large percentage of the total amount of losses paid by insurance companies. Some of the most common water damage losses are caused by malfunction or misuse of appliances in your own home. Some of those appliances to watch that can cause water damage are your hot water tank, outdoor taps and pumps, dishwashers, washing machines, bathtubs and toilets. Even drains can cause extensive water damage if not properly maintained.
You can now find water sensory detectors available in the marketplace that can help you protect your home from water damage. Check with your local plumber, home hardware store or alarm company for more information on the different types of water sensory detectors and alarms.
Here are some water damage prevention tips for you:
A number of household appliances and water filtration systems and coolers require a water supply. Three main tubing materials are readily available – plastic, copper and braided stainless steel. Each is acceptable; however, the copper and the braided stainless steel are the most effective in preventing water damage.
The weakest points for supply hoses are connections and areas where the tubing might be susceptible to physical damage. Periodically, check under the sink and behind appliances for leaks and examine the exposed tubing for areas that may have been damaged and may be susceptible to bursting.
Water heaters have a life expectancy of 10-15 years. If your appliance has reached this life range, or shows extensive signs of rusting, consideration should be given to having the unit replaced and/or checked by a technician.
Water Heaters are normally installed on the lowest level of the home and should be located close to a floor drain. All items in the vicinity of the water heater should be stored off the floor and or placed in plastic containers.
Consideration should be given to having a drain installed in all above grade laundry rooms with washing machines. Inspect washing machine hoses every five years for signs of bulging, cracking or fraying.
If your home is located in an area susceptible to sewer back-up, consideration should be given to have a professional install an anti-backflow valve.
Effective downspouts should be in use to discharge water from the roof and gutters away from the building. Downspouts should extend several feet away from the foundation. Proper grading is also a very effective means of reducing or eliminating water seepage in the foundation walls.
Do you know where the main water shut off valve is located in your home in case of an emergency? Products like the FloodStop electronic water escape detection systems can be installed in your home and prevent flooding by water escape by individual appliances. Products are also on the market that can be attached to the main water supply.
