10/24/2023
Preparing your property for winter
Water damage Is main cause of claims As in most insurance companies, has been water damage for several years. These water damages result from various factors such as failure of sump pumps and hot water tanks, a break in the public water line, sewage backup, and water infiltration.Take advantage of the autumn season to inspect your buildings and implement preventive measures to avoid inconvenience.
Some good advice
Outdoor faucets in the autumn, turn off the water and drain the hoses if necessary.
Roof Check the condition of your roof covering twice a year; If your roof is over 20 years old, have it inspected by a professional.
Flat roof: make sure the roof surface is clean and free of debris and that the drain is functioning.
Drains, gutters, and downspouts Ensure that the downspouts are at least 1.8 meters (5 feet) away from the foundation wall of your building. Make sure the water does not flow towards the building or neighboring house. It should instead move away towards the street, backyard, or alley; Ensure that the drains and gutters are not clogged. For example, remove dead leaves from the gutters in the autumn.
Caulking of doors and windows Check their condition once a year.
Basement window wells Inspect them to ensure there is no water accumulation. Foundation Check its condition once a year to detect any cracks; Have them repaired as soon as they appear.
Water supply (make sure to close and drain the outdoor faucet) Make sure that all people living or working on the premises know where it is located. (Close it if you are leaving for several days and drain the water from the lowest point faucet)
Water heater Consider replacing it after 10 to 12 years of use. (Or earlier if there are signs of rust) Sump pump Have a plumber check its proper functioning or replace it after 10 years of use.
Backflow preventer Have a plumber check its proper functioning and cleanliness. This device prevents sewage water from overflowing into the basement of your building. The valve automatically closes when sewage water backs up.
Winter Heat sufficiently to prevent pipes from freezing or being damaged. If your building is completely unoccupied for several consecutive winter days: Turn off the water and drain the pipes; Ask someone to regularly check the proper functioning of your heating system (at least every two days). Don't forget to inform your insurance agent of any changes related to the use of your building (arrival or departure of tenants, temporary or permanent closure, etc.).
Make sure you have sufficient insurance coverage to cover damages in case of a disaster (know the value of your property on that day). What to do in case of a disaster Who to contact/where are your documents? Check: what are the coverages in case of evacuation caused by a disaster.
(If you are not sure of something my contact are [email protected]/ 514-917-2479)
(9 flips and formerly contractor/ 15 years as a realtor / get a free estimate of your property)
