Getting your home ready for winter
With the arrival of winter, cold temperatures can cause serious problems if you haven’t prepared your home to prevent damage. The Insurance Bureau of Canada (IBC) has some tips for homeowners.
A top priority according to Jack Chadirdjian, director of communications for IBC, is preventing water damage. “Water damage accounts for about half the winter claims in Quebec, way ahead of fire and theft,” he notes. “Every year the insurance industry pays out over $1 billion in claims.”
Check the condition of your roof. If it’s more than 20 years old, have it inspected by a professional roofer and replaced if need be. Also, check the foundation cracks, where water can seep inside and worsen the damage during freezing and thawing cycles.
Fire is also a major risk in the winter months. Follow the IBC’s advice—have your chimney swept and check that smoke detector batteries are in good working order.