Seasonal Home Maintenance Tips: Flood Season

Spring has sprung! The return of warmer weather and the spring season means we are about to enter the rainy season and eventually as we get into the summer months storm season. Both of these means rain fall and either accumulation over time or flash accumulation. Both situations means the risk for flooding has returned for Windsor-Essex homeowners. If you are a current homeowner in areas like South Windsor or along water like in Lakeshore, Ontario you know the threat well and most likely have already planned against it. However, if you are thinking of jumping into the Windsor real estate market, you should be aware of neighbourhoods that are prone to flooding. A Windsor REALTOR ® will be able to help pinpoint these for you. No matter if you are a current homeowner, recently moved to flood areas, or maybe searching for houses for sale in South Windsor, Lakeshore, or other flood prone areas you’ll want to make sure you’re protected this spring and summer. We’ve got some tips that will help you minimize the chances of flooding or damage if it does happen and minimize the headaches and heartaches that can come with owning Windsor homes.

First thing is to make sure that all of your electrical sockets, switches and wiring are elevated at least 12 inches above predicted flood levels for your area. This reduces the amount of damage a flood can cause to your home, and it prevents your home from becoming a safety hazard during the recovery period. While this is most likely the case in home up to code, older homes may need to have this reviewed.

Next, consider waterproofing your basement. While waterproofing your basement typically requires a sizable investment, this investment pays off if you live in an area that is frequently flooded. Along with waterproofing, be sure to set up a sump pump in the basement and a battery-operated backup in case the power goes out during the flood. You can also consider adding flood insurance to your home policy as added protection if your area is more prone to flooding as an extra layer of protection.

Don’t ignore alerts, you can do the things discussed above well before a flood hits, but there is some preparation that has to be done in the lead up to a flood. Pay attention to the weather, and take flood alerts seriously. A Flood Watch will be issued when the conditions are right for flooding. This is a good time to protect furniture and important documents. A Flood Warning means that a flood is happening now or going to take place soon. Also don’t forget to Store an emergency kit in your home at all times. This kit should include at least three days' worth of water and food (including 1 gallon [or 4 liters] per person per day), along with essentials like flashlights, medications, cell phones/chargers/charged power banks.

Below you will find a Flood Guide from Essex Region Conservation Authority (ERCA):

Here at Jump Realty, all of our agents understand the threat of flooding in our area and will advise on it. They also know industry people to make sure your home is protected. They’ll give you honest advice on what course of action is best for you in their professional opinion and will always put taking care of your best interests first! With offices in Windsor, Tecumseh, Kingsville, and Chatham, no matter where you are a Jump agent is ready to help. Please contact us for any housing needs and let us give you a better real estate experience!