SEWER BACKUP. The facts about. A guide to protecting what matters most. For more information, talk to your broker or insurance adjuster.

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1 The facts about For more information, talk to your broker or insurance adjuster. Economical Insurance includes the following companies: Economical Mutual Insurance Company, The Missisquoi Insurance Company, Perth Insurance Company, Waterloo Insurance Company, Family Insurance Solutions Inc., Sonnet Insurance Company, Petline Insurance Company Economical Insurance. All rights reserved. All Economical intellectual property, including but not limited to Economical and related trademarks, names and logos are the property of Economical Mutual Insurance Company and/or its subsidiaries and/or affiliates and are registered and/or used in Canada. All other intellectual property is the property of their respective owners SEWER BACKUP A guide to protecting what matters most

2 When it comes to sewer backup, PREVENTION IS KEY Water damage can be devastating to your family and home, yet so many homeowners don t think about preventing water damage until it s too late. With climate changes bringing more severe weather events to our doorsteps, basement flooding is a real risk to your home and possessions. And while the possibility of losses caused by a sewer backup can t be avoided entirely, there are steps you can take to help reduce the risk of damage to your home. Use these tips to help protect what matters most to you. Seal cracks in foundation walls and basement floors This is a simple way to help reduce the risk of basement water damage. In most cases, existing cracks can be sealed from the inside of your home and do not require digging around your foundation. Add a weeping tile or foundation drain Homes built before the 1950s may not have them, but a weeping tile or foundation drain can be added to your property and can play an important part in having the proper drainage around your home. Install window wells and covers Window wells significantly improve drainage around basement windows and help to prevent windowsill rot. Plastic sheeting can also act as an inexpensive barrier. Canadian municipalities are working hard to reduce urban flooding risks by replacing and updating aging sewer systems to accommodate growing populations.

3 Disconnect your eavestrough downspouts from your weeping tile (or sanitary sewer drain) Downspouts are intended to move water from your eavestroughs to a more absorbent surface, like your lawn or garden, at least six feet away from your home. Downspouts connected to your weeping tile or sanitary sewer drain can overwhelm these systems with water, which can lead to a sewer backup. If redirecting your downspouts, avoid sending water to your driveway or sidewalk as it can ice over in the winter and create a different kind of hazard. Disconnect your weeping tile from the sanitary or storm sewer drain (and install a sump pit and sump pump) Weeping tile connected to the sanitary or storm sewer drain means more water flowing into the municipal sewer system during a heavy rainfall a perfect storm for sewer backup. Be sure to install a sump pump (in its own sump pit) to move water to the surface where it can safely run off. If you re unsure of where to direct the flow, contact your municipal government to confirm the right pathway for water runoff. You may be eligible for a higher coverage limit or a reduced rate with your Water Damage Extension Endorsement if you install flood prevention tools like a sump pump with backup power or backwater valves. Ask your broker for details.

4 Design landscaping to allow water to run away from your house Runoff from a two-storey home after a 25-mm rainfall can fill five bathtubs. Diverting water from your home naturally with sloping hills and strategically placed shrubbery can help to keep your basement dry. Don t store irreplaceable items in your basement Water damage is often irreparable. Keep important documents and sentimental heirlooms high and dry. Install a backwater valve Mainline backwater valves allow sewage to flow out of your house but not back in when the sanitary sewer system becomes overwhelmed. Have a professional secure the proper permits and install a backwater valve recommended by your municipality. Basement flooding can be more than inconvenient. It can do serious damage, from spoiling sentimental items and basement flooring, walls, and furniture, to destroying big ticket items like furnaces and water heaters. Further, dampness and mold growth could cause your family disturbing health concerns, not to mention the expense of relocating while repairs are made.

5 TOP 5 THINGS YOU CAN DO TO PREVENT SEWER BACKUP 1. Get a backup power source for your sump pump. Sump pumps require electricity and won t work during power failures. Have your sump pump connected to a reliable backup power source, such as a battery or generator, so it works when you need it most. 2. Avoid pouring fats, oils, and grease down your drains. Over time, they build up and create blockages that can lead to a sewer backup. Dispose of these substances with your regular food waste. 4. Reduce your water use during severe storms. Wait a few hours after a storm ends to use your bath or shower, run your dishwasher, or do your laundry. 5. Keep storm sewer grates clear of leaves, trash, ice, and snow. When storm sewer systems are clogged, there is a higher risk of water flowing back toward your property. If you notice repeated clogging of your street s sewer grate, contact your municipality. 3. Clean your eavestroughs and downspouts. Clearing leaves and debris at least once a year avoids clogging, which reduces the risk of a sewer backup.

6 Many Canadian municipalities offer subsidies and loan programs to help you prevent sewer backups. Check with your municipality for details in your area.