As the spring weather arrives, SGI Canada is sharing some tips to help manage the spring melt.

Here are their tips for protecting your home and belongings:

  • Rake remaining snow off your roof.
  • Check your eavestroughs and gutters for signs of ice dams and/or remove debris that could slow the flow of water.
  • Shovel snow away from the foundation of your home.
  • Check the grading in the yard to see that it is sloping away from the foundation, allowing melt water to lead away from your home.
  • Extend your downspouts away from the home by at least two meters.
  • Check your backwater prevention valve on the main line of your sewer, if your home has one - is it in working condition?
  • Check on your sump pump and pit to make sure everything is in good condition and ready for melt water.
  • Check your basement regularly for signs of water.
  • Check that storm sewer grates in your neighbourhood are clear of debris.
  • Items stored in your basement should not sit directly on your basement floor and plastic watertight containers would help protect your items from water damage.
  • Don’t store irreplaceable or valuable items in your basement.

SGI says taking these actions could help prevent property insurance claims as the snow melts. They said they have not received a significant number of claims as of yet.