Even though you can’t fully flood-proof your home, you can take steps to reduce the odds of water getting inside and minimize damage.
We researched the Government of Canada’s current flood-damage actions, the Toronto and Region Conservation Authority’s flood-map guidance, the Intact Centre on Climate Adaptation’s Home Flood Protection Program, and the Insurance Bureau of Canada’s water and flood insurance guide to bring you this thorough guide to minimizing flood damage.
How Can You Reduce Flood Damage to Your House in Canada?
Know the source of the floodwater, then determine vulnerable areas of the house. For example, measures to prevent sewer backup differ from those meant to keep surface water from reaching basement windows.
Use all compatible measures. For example, direct roof runoff away from the house, maintain proper ground slope, protect below-grade openings, make sure your sump pump works, and ask a qualified plumber whether a backwater valve suits your system. No single measure or device will protect your house.
Flood maps indicate riverine flooding but may not pinpoint problems like overloaded storm sewers, improper lot drainage or household plumbing issues.
Read More: Compare Overland Water Coverage and Flood Insurance
Flood-Damage Reduction Tactics That Work Together
Inside the House
- Install a sump pump with battery backup.
- Ask a plumber whether a backwater valve is appropriate.
- Repair confirmed foundation, wall and floor cracks.
- Raise major appliances and utilities.
- Install water sensors.
Read More: See How Sump Pumps Relate to Home Insurance
Outside the House
- Extend downspouts away from the foundation.
- Correct grading that directs water toward the house.
- Clean gutters twice a year.
- Install suitable window-well covers.
- Use temporary barriers only when recommended by local authorities.
How to Prioritize Flood Measures for Your Location
Use this table as a list of questions and verify them using local topographic or other maps, drainage information, and a site inspection.
| Location or property clue | What to verify | Priority discussion |
|---|---|---|
| Mapped riverine floodplain | Map date, flood depth, access route and whether the viewer shows precise or generalized limits | Local emergency plan, elevation or relocation options, and available insurance |
| Urban basement with past storm backup | Municipal sewer history, private-side connection, sump and floor-drain route | Backwater assessment, sump reliability, grading and optional sewer-backup coverage |
| Coastal location | Storm surge, wave action, erosion and evacuation route | Local coastal-hazard advice; do not assume overland-water wording includes salt water or tidal flooding |
| River or ice-jam community | Seasonal warnings, road access, community protection and safe evacuation | Property measures that do not interfere with community drainage, plus emergency planning |
| Steep, low or neighbouring lot | Where runoff enters, shared swales and legal drainage route | Site-specific grading and drainage design before moving water elsewhere |
What Home Insurance May and May Not Cover
Confirm eligibility and rate changes with insurers before buying water-related equipment that may qualify for a discount. Retain records like photos, invoices, maintenance records, permits, etc.
Be aware that most home insurance policies don’t cover some kinds of water damage. For instance, IBC points out that some insurers offer coverage for sewer backup and overland water that homeowners can purchase. Coverage depends on the insurer and the home. Some types of water might be excluded or covered separately, such as groundwater, flooding due to tides or a coastal storm, seepage, poor maintenance, or wear. Check exclusions, definitions, deductibles and sublimits to find out how endorsements interact.
Read More: Read How Sewer Backup Coverage Works
If Flooding Is Imminent or Has Started
Follow local warnings and evacuation instructions. Never enter or go near moving water. Do not enter flooded areas which may be contaminated by sewage or pose electrical, gas, or structural hazards.
Move people, pets, medicines, valuables, etc. to safety if you can do so safely. Shut off gas, electricity, water, etc. only if advised by a responsible authority or a qualified professional.
Notify your insurer as soon as possible. When it is safe, take photos of the damage. If possible and safe, save damaged items for your insurer to see, but don’t keep items that pose safety or health risks.
Record all emergency repairs and save receipts. Get your insurer’s permission before making permanent repairs.
Read More: Use the Ontario Flash-Flood Insurance Guide