Fall storms: why should we be wary of them?

Global warming is one of the factors reshaping Canada’s climate zones. Insurance companies are closely monitoring the situation to accurately assess the risks they assume. Climate change is altering the frequency and intensity of certain weather events, including fall storms. And natural disasters result in hefty bills for homeowners, motorists and insurers.

And, as noted on the authoritative website Ouranos, “high winds and storms can cause considerable damage to infrastructure and ecosystems. They can also pose significant safety risks to the public and even endanger lives.” Prevention is therefore essential!

Fall storms: what kind of damage can wind cause?

Broken branches and uprooted trees

High winds can snap branches or uproot trees, causing damage to roofs, exterior siding, windows, fences and vehicles.

Roof damage

Strong gusts of wind can damage shingles and other roof components. This can lead to water leaks.

Water ingress in the home

Heavy rains can put significant strain on roofs, windows, doors and foundations, especially when water accumulates rapidly around the home.

Overflowing gutters

Dead leaves and other debris can clog gutters.[BI2.1] During heavy rains, water may then overflow and seep into the walls.

Power outages and related damage

Branches that fall on power lines can cause power outages. A prolonged outage can, for example, cause certain household equipment, such as a sump pump[LD3.1], to stop working.

Damage caused by flying objects

Patio furniture, flower pots, decorations and other objects left outdoors can be blown about by high winds, causing damage to your property or vehicle.

Damage to outdoor structures

A shed, fence, pergola, above-ground[BI4.1] pool or other outdoor structures can be damaged by high winds.

Wind damage: how can you protect your property?

Inspect your property regularly

Do the weather forecasts predict high winds ahead? Before Mother Nature unleashes her fury, take a walk around your property. A few simple precautions can help minimize damage. Store outdoor furniture in your shed and secure any items that could be blown away by the wind. Also, check your gutter extensions and make sure your property is able to drain a greater amount of rainfall than usual.

Pay close attention to the vegetation on your property during each inspection. Weak branches and dead trees may require the expertise of a professional, especially if power lines are less than three meters away. If branches do not meet this distance requirement, the law stipulates that only a trimmer authorized by Hydro-Québec may carry out pruning or tree removal work.

Check the key components of your home: roof, doors and windows

It’s essential to prevent damage that could weaken the roof of your home. Ideally, have your roof inspected on a regular basis. Also pay attention to the condition of your doors and windows. Is the caulking in good condition? Check that all openings are properly sealed to address any areas where water could potentially seep in before problems arise. Finally, stay on the lookout for weather alerts. Did you know that monitoring weather conditions helps you to take action before winds or rain intensify?

Home insurance: protecting your home against storms

Basic home insurance covers damage caused by severe weather, such as high winds, hail, black ice and lightning, for example. But what if a fall storm brings down one of the trees on your property… sending it crashing into your next-door neighbour’s patio door? Your home insurance policy could then compensate your neighbour through your liability coverage.

As for most water damage caused by a storm, it is covered if the insured has certain riders added to their iA Auto and Home all-perils home insurance policy: Water Damage — Above-ground water and Water Damage — Groundwater and Sewers. So, do you have these recommended coverages?

iA Auto and Home, a subsidiary of iA Financial Group, lets you manage your auto and home insurance online whenever works for you, easily and securely in My Client Space. Not a client yet? Request an auto insurance quote or a home insurance quote online today—100% on your own!