Tips to Prepare Your Property for the Spring Melt
Why Proper Insurance Coverage is Essential
Spring melt increases the risk of flooding, water damage, and structural issues. Standard home and business insurance policies may not cover all types of water damage, so reviewing and updating your coverage, when necessary, with a licensed professional broker is crucial.
Tip: Contact your local insurance broker to confirm you have adequate protection for the spring thaw. Your broker is there to help, they want you and your property to be covered for anything life may throw at you.
Spring weather has touched down in Manitoba and we're seeing the piles of snow turn into water. Don't let the melting snow wreak havoc on your property. Spring has sprung but that doesn't mean you have to spring a leak! Below are a few tips to protect your property.
1. Clear Snow Away from Your Property’s Foundation
As temperatures rise, melting snow can seep into your foundation, causing basement flooding and structural damage.
What to do: Shovel snow at least 3-5 feet away from your home. Clear pathways for runoff to prevent pooling.
2. Check and Maintain Your Gutters and Downspouts
Clogged, damaged, or disconnected gutters can cause water to overflow, leading to roof leaks and foundation issues.
What to do: Clean gutters of leaves, ice, and debris. Ensure downspouts extend at least 6 feet from your foundation.
3. Inspect and Maintain Your Roof
Ice dams and leaks can cause water damage inside your property.
What to do: Look for damaged shingles and ice buildup. Remove snow buildup to prevent ice dams from forming.
4. Ensure Proper Grading Around Your Property
Poor grading directs water toward your home or business instead of away, increasing the risk of flooding.
What to do: Add soil to create a gentle slope away from your property. Check for low spots where water may collect.
5. Test Your Sump Pump and Install a Backup
A non-functioning sump pump can lead to a flooded basement.
What to do: Test it by pouring water into the pit to ensure it activates. Consider installing a battery backup in case of power outages.
6. Seal Cracks in Your Foundation and Basement
Even small cracks can allow water infiltration, leading to mold and structural issues.
What to do: Use waterproof sealant or epoxy to fill any visible cracks in your foundation and basement walls.
7. Keep Storm Drains and Ditches Clear
Blocked storm drains can cause localized flooding on your property and in your neighbourhood.
What to do: Clear debris from storm drains and ditches nearby. Contact the city or other officials if public drains are blocked.
8. Protect Valuables in Your Basement
Flooding can destroy personal items and furniture stored in the basement.
What to do: Elevate items off the floor using pallets or shelves. Store important documents in waterproof containers.
9. Check Your Plumbing for Leaks or Weak Points
Pipes can leak or burst due to temperature fluctuations, increasing flood risks.
What to do: Inspect pipes for cracks or weak spots. Ensure your backflow valve is functional to prevent sewage backups.
10. Prepare an Emergency Plan and Have Essential Supplies
Floods can happen quickly, and being unprepared can lead to damage and safety risks.
What to do: Have an emergency kit with a flashlight, extra batteries, water, and important documents. Know your local flood risk and evacuation routes.
Key Insurance Considerations:
Overland Flooding Insurance – Covers damage from melting snow and rising water levels. Not all policies include this coverage by default.
Sewer Backup Coverage – Protects against damage from sewage system overflows, a common issue during spring thaw.
Water Infiltration Coverage – Helps cover repairs if water enters through foundations, walls, or windows.
Contents Coverage – Ensures valuables in your basement or other at-risk areas are protected.
By following these tips and ensuring proper insurance coverage, you can safeguard your property and finances against the risks of the spring melt.
The information provided on this webpage is for general informational purposes only and is not a substitute for professional advice. While we strive to offer helpful tips for protecting your property, we cannot guarantee that these measures will prevent damage.