Floods are one of the most common and costly natural disasters, and both homeowners and tenants are realizing the importance of preparing their properties against the risks, loss, and costs of rising water. Implementing flood protection measures isn’t just about avoiding inconvenience — it can be a vital strategy to protect your family's health, safety, finances, and peace of mind.
Benefits of flood protection
- Minimizes structural damage: Preventative solutions like sump pumps, backflow valves, and proper landscaping can reduce the risk of water intrusion and protect foundations, walls, and flooring.
- Safeguards valuables: Floodproofing measures help preserve irreplaceable items such as photos, documents, electronics, and family heirlooms.
- Lowers repair and replacement costs: Flood damage can lead to hefty bills. Prevention is usually far less expensive than recovery.
- May reduce insurance premiums: Some providers offer discounts for homes with certified flood-proofing installations.
- Less stress during storms: Knowing your home is equipped to withstand flooding provides a sense of control and security during extreme weather.
- Improved resilience: With protective measures in place, your home is better prepared for unexpected events — meaning quicker recovery and less disruption.
- Reduces pollution risks: Floodwaters can carry chemicals, oils, and waste. Prevention helps avoid contamination of your home and surrounding areas.
- Supports community resilience: Individual efforts contribute to broader neighborhood preparedness, especially in flood-prone zones.
Durham Greener Homes services for flood protection
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To help you better understand what may be the most effective green retrofits for you and your home, Durham Region residents can talk to a Greener Homes Coach — who will answer any questions you may have, and guide you through both the incentive process and the many retrofit options available.
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Weather-ready Home Assessment
A Weather-ready Home Assessment is a free and comprehensive evaluation of your home’s readiness for extreme weather events including extreme heat and cold, flooding, and windstorms. This assessment identifies potential vulnerabilities in your home’s landscaping, building-envelope, and critical systems.
Learn more about a Weather-ready Assessment
•There is no charge for this service.
•Available to Durham Region residents only.
Flood protection: Act Before it's too late — be prepared!
Book a Weather-ready Home Assessment
- Visit Durham's floodplain map to determine if your home is in a flood-prone area.
- Keep up to date on home maintenance by following these simple do-it-yourself (DIY) tips.
- Implement flood protection retrofits to limit your risk to extreme weather flood waters.
- The Home Resiliency Checklist is a practical self-assessment tool that helps homeowners evaluate their property’s resilience to extreme weather.
- Purchase Flood Insurance. Standard homeowner's insurance policies typically do not cover flood damage.
- Prepare an Emergency Plan
- Create an emergency kit with essentials such as water, food, medications, and important documents.
- Develop a family evacuation plan and practice it regularly.
- Stay informed about weather forecasts and flood warnings through reliable sources.
- Take Preventive Measures During Heavy Rainfall
- Move valuable items to higher ground or upper floors.
- Turn off utilities such as electricity and gas if flooding is imminent.
- Avoid walking or driving through floodwaters, as they can be deeper and more dangerous than they appear.
Flood protection resources
Durham Region flood preparedness
Durham Region Flood Preparedness is a comprehensive guide to help residents prepare for potential flooding. The webpage covers key topics such as flood risk awareness, emergency preparedness steps, and how to protect your home and belongings. It includes practical advice on assembling an emergency kit, creating a household evacuation plan, and staying informed about flood warnings. The guide also provides links to local emergency services and resources to help residents respond effectively in case of a flood.
Flood Ready Durham: Flood warnings
Flooding is monitored by Conservation Authorities, the Ministry of Natural Resources and Forestry, and Environment Canada.
Conservation Authorities issue flood messages to municipal emergency management officials and the media when flooding is possible or imminent. The municipal officials then take action to warn residents. Warning of an impending flood allows municipalities and other government agencies to put emergency response plans into action and, if necessary, evacuate communities.
Flood insurance information
The Insurance Bureau of Canada’s Flood Insurance Guide provides crucial information on flood insurance coverage and financial protection for homeowners. This resource explains the different types of flood insurance, including overland and sewer backup coverage, and helps homeowners assess their risk level. It also offers guidance on what to look for in an insurance policy, how to file a claim after a flood, and steps to minimize potential damage before disaster strikes. Understanding these details can help homeowners make informed decisions about protecting their property against financial loss due to flooding.
PDF files
Be prepared: Get started on your path to a greener, more energy-efficient, and weather-ready home today.
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