With the wet fall last year, and heavy snows this winter, the City of Yorkton and SGI Canada are suggesting homeowners take a few extra precautions this spring to prevent water getting into their houses.
With the possibility of a wetter than normal spring, if the snow melts quickly, it may be wise "to take some preventative measures," said Rick Barks SGI CANADA's Assistant Vice President of Personal Lines at a press event in the city last Thursday.
"Residents in Yorkton know all too well what water can do to their homes," he said, adding that across Saskatchewan in 2010 there were more home damage due to rain and water than he had seen previously in more than 30-years with the company.
To guard against water in basements, the City and SGI CANADA encourage residents to:
Clear neighbourhood catch basins to help water drain.
Shovel or remove snow from around your home and move it so it will drain away from the foundation.
Clear channels in the ice/snow to allow melt water to drain away.
Ensure downspouts are extended so they discharge rain or melt water at least two meters away from the foundation.
Check to make sure your sump pump is working. If you don't have a sump pump, consider installing one. Contact a plumber for assistance if required.
Consider installing a mainline Sewer Backwater Valve to protect against sewer backup if you don't have one.
Keep basement sewer caps in place.
Check your basement regularly for signs of water and consider installing a water-sensing alarm.
Barks added SGI CANADA is also getting ready for the melt by reminding residents to protect their homes from flooding, seepage and sewer backup. Although the SGI CANADA Home Pak policy covers many water escape and rupture situations, damage caused by flooding, seepage and continuous or repeated leakage is not covered. Sewer backup insurance is often sold as an optional coverage and may be subject to certain conditions, limitations or exclusions.
