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Ten Ways to Prevent Water Damage to Your Home

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By RBC Insurance • Published March 19, 2021 • 3 min read

Water damage to your home can lead to big expenses – and big headaches.

As a homeowner it’s important to do routine checks of your home to help avoid water damage. This is especially true when winter comes. Here are some quick tips to help reduce the chances of running into problems.

Ten Ways to Prevent Water Damage to Your Home

  • Replace damaged shingles or the entire roof to protect against damage due to aging and extreme weather corrosion; consider redoing entire roof if its shingles have not been replaced in the last 15 years
  • Consider adding a waterproof membrane under your shingles
  • Check caulking around chimney
  • Ensure proper ventilation and insulation in your attic
  • Safely clear off snow/ice

  • Keep it clear of debris to prevent overflow; incorporate this into a routine pre-winter clean up
  • Install downspout extensions to prevent leaks into the basement

  • Properly seal or replace old windows and doors
  • Install wells for basement windows

  • Ensure drains are clear from debris
  • Know where the shut-off valve is or install one

  • Check shut-off valves every six months to ensure they work and know the location of your main shut-off valve
  • Insulate water supply pipes in exposed areas of the home
  • Check plumbing for corrosion or buckling and replace if necessary
  • Avoid pouring fats, oil and grease down drains
  • Drain all water pipes outside your home as a part of a routine pre-winter clean up

  • Check hoses for wear/tear and replace if necessary
  • Replace older appliances
  

  • Seal any cracks to prevent leaks
  • Ensure proper grading for water to drain away from home
  • Keep snow away from foundation walls and basement windows

  • Ensure basement floor drains are clear from debris and stored valuables are off the floor
  • Install back-flow valve or backup generator for sump pumps

  • Keep it maintained and check for corrosion to prevent leakage or bursting
  • Replace it every 10-15 years

  • Keep outdoor sewer grates clear to prevent backup
  • Install a rain barrel to collect water

Ensure that your home is protected from water damage.

Want to talk to someone? Call 1-877-749-7224, find an advisor near you or get a quote today.

Want to talk to someone? Call 1-877-749-7224, find an advisor near you or get a quote today.

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*Home and auto insurance products are distributed by RBC Insurance Agency Ltd. and underwritten by Aviva General Insurance Company. In Quebec, RBC Insurance Agency Ltd. Is registered as a damage insurance agency. As a result of government-run auto insurance plans, auto insurance is not available through RBC Insurance in Manitoba, Saskatchewan and British Columbia.

This article is intended as general information only and is not to be relied upon as constituting legal, financial or other professional advice. A professional advisor should be consulted regarding your specific situation. Information presented is believed to be factual and up-to-date but we do not guarantee its accuracy and it should not be regarded as a complete analysis of the subjects discussed. All expressions of opinion reflect the judgment of the authors as of the date of publication and are subject to change. No endorsement of any third parties or their advice, opinions, information, products or services is expressly given or implied by Royal Bank of Canada or any of its affiliates.

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Home Insurance Winter Weather

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