Ontario has experienced a great deal of flooding recently with water levels rising more than six inches in some lakes in just 24 hours.^₁ As the ground may be partially frozen and already saturated following days of heavy rains, there is limited ability to absorb more water.² 

If you are impacted by the recent flooding, here’s what you should know:

1. Review your property insurance to determine what kind of coverage you have. Generally, companies offer three types of water protection:

• Base policy water coverage protection for loss or damage resulting from events such as burst water pipes.

• Sewer back-up protection for loss or damage related to the back-up or escape of water or sewage.

• Overland water protection for loss or damage related to water entering your property, from the sudden accumulation of water after heavy rains, spring run-off, or overflow of lakes and rivers.

Sewer back-up or a reduced limit of sewer back-up coverage is available for the majority of our members. If it’s unavailable to you, it may be because the city you live in has an aging infrastructure or others in your city are already experiencing this type of loss and haven’t taken any preventative measures.

If you are unsure of what your insurance policy covers, we are here to help. Contact an OTIP broker today by calling 1-800-267-6847.

2. If you are insured by OTIP and need to make a claim, call our Curo claims department at 1-866-952-2876 or report a claim online. 

Have you been impacted by the flooding? You may be eligible for financial help from the Government of Ontario. The Disaster Recovery Assistance for Ontarians (DRAO) is a program that can help you recover costs after a natural disaster.³ If you are eligible, you may be reimbursed for:

• Clean up expenses

• Costs to repair or replace essential property

• Basic emergency expenses like evacuation travel costs

To determine your eligibility and how to apply, visit Ontario Disaster Recovery Assistance. 

Our Brokers are here to answer all of your questions and make sure your insurance coverage fits your needs. For any questions or to review your policy, call 1-800-267-6847 to speak with an OTIP Broker. 

Sources: 
1. CBC News 
2. CBC News Windsor
3. Ontario Disaster Recovery Assistance