Water damage is one of the most common and expensive home insurance claims in Ontario. A burst pipe, unnoticed leak, or sump pump failure can lead to thousands of dollars in repairs and weeks of disruption.
At Gibb Insurance Brokers, we believe prevention is the best protection.
Here are three smart, effective ways homeowners can reduce the risk of water damage and avoid the stress of making a claim.
1. Install a Battery Backup Sump Pump
Your primary sump pump plays a crucial role in keeping groundwater away from your foundation. But when a major storm hits and the power goes out is precisely when you need it most and a standard sump pump won’t run unless it’s connected to a generator.
That’s where a battery backup system becomes essential.
A battery-powered sump pump activates automatically during an outage, keeping water moving and helping prevent basement flooding.
For homeowners in areas prone to heavy rain or spring runoff, this is one of the most valuable lines of defence.
2. Use Smart Leak Sensors in High-Risk Areas
Small leaks can go unnoticed for hours or days until they cause major trouble. Smart leak sensors are an inexpensive, highly effective way to catch moisture early.
Placed near appliances like dishwashers, washing machines, water heaters, and under sinks, these sensors send alerts the moment water is detected. Early warnings give you time to shut off the source, call a plumber, and prevent damage from spreading.
3. Consider a Smart Water Shut-Off Device
For an added layer of protection, smart water-shutoff valves monitor water flow throughout your home. If they sense unusual activity like a burst pipe or steady leak, they automatically close the main water line.
Many models connect directly to your smartphone, allowing you to review alerts, track water usage, or shut off your water remotely. This is especially valuable for cottage owners, snowbirds, or anyone who travels frequently.
A single device can prevent catastrophic losses and protect your home even when you’re not there.
These three proactive tools can dramatically reduce your chances of experiencing costly water damage. While insurance is there to help when things go wrong, preventing the loss in the first place saves time, money, and stress, and helps keep your home safe year-round.