Ice and Snow Water Backup Due to temperature variance, ice dams may form along roof edges, inside eaves troughs, up roof valleys and surrounding roof drains on flat decked roofs. This situation may be accentuated in houses with poor insulation.

As snow begins to melt, water may seep under the shingles on sloped roofs or under the cant strip edges on flat roofs. Water will then flow inside the house or building. If the temperature drops, the water on the roof will freeze, and the flow into the building will temporarily stop. However, when thawing occurs, water will again back up and leak inside.

This may cause water to enter different rooms, on different days, until the ice dam completely melts.

To help prevent this, rock salt or calcium chloride CAN be used along the roof edges, valleys and roof drains to help melt the dam.

It is not recommended to remove eaves troughs or shoveling the roof as such action is dangerous and can cause more damage.

If water enters through a light fixture, turn the light’s power off by removing the fuse or turning off the breaker switch.

If water enters from the ceiling, create a small hole with a screwdriver to allow water to drain. This prevents the water from spreading and threatening the entire ceiling. Use buckets to control the draining water.

Collapse small metal utility sheds and aluminum or canvas awnings are not designed to carry the weight associated with recent snowfalls. Where practical and safe, we recommend they be cleared.

Flat deck roofs can be shoveled, providing it is safe to do so.

Frozen Pipes

If you leave the home or business for an extended period, you should arrange daily pipe inspections. If possible, you should drain the plumbing before leaving. This can be done by shutting off the main water supply valve and opening the taps at the lowest point in the house, such as the basement laundry room. Additionally, environmentally friendly antifreeze can be poured into toilets, sink drains, and dishwashers to reduce the risk of frozen pipes.

Sewer backups

If the drains below the ground freeze or sewers cannot handle all of the melting snow, sewer backups can occur. If you live in a high risk area, you cantakepreventative measures by taking loose carpets and furniture upstairs to avoid damage. Your furniture can be raised off the basement floor with blocks to prevent damage.

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The Bank/Trust Company vs. Your Own Individual Coverage

When coverage is purchased through the bank;

The Bank Policy is owned and controlled by the lender (i.e. bank).

1. The lender is the beneficiary (i.e. bank).
2. The lender controls the distribution of the insurance proceeds.
3. Insurance may be refused or the premiums increased if you change lenders, move homes or increase the size of your loan.
4. Insurance coverage decreases with the balance of your mortgage, although premiums continue to increase as you age.
5. There is minimal flexibility and no special policy options.
6. The individual you deal with is not an insurance expert.
7. At the time of the claim you could incur interest penalties which may not be covered under the policy.

When you purchase an individual policy;

1. Your policy is owned and controlled by you.
2. Your policy can only be cancelled by you.
3. You name the beneficiary.
4. Your designated beneficiary controls the distribution of the insurance proceeds.
5. Policy is fully portable whether you move or change mortgage carriers.
6. Insurance coverage does not decrease and you may choose to continue it after the mortgage is retired.
7. There is maximum flexibility with policy options such as disability waiver of premium.
8. You receive advice and personalized service from a qualified Life Insurance professional

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If your home will be vacant for any length of time, you may have an obligation to inform your insurance provider.  Do any of the following scenarios apply to you:

• you own a home that is vacant (no individuals or possession are currently in
• the home
• you plan to be away from your home for a period of less than 30 days
• you plan to be away from your home for more than 30 days

If any of these situations apply to you, here is an article that explains why it is important to contact your insurance provider and what you should do in any of these cases.

As always, we are here to help you with all of your insurance questions.  Feel free to contact us at any time or visit our Ontario insurance website for more information.

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