Ontario weather isn’t what it used to be.
Storms are hitting harder, rain is falling faster, and ice events are lasting longer. For many homeowners, the question isn’t if the next storm will come — it’s when, and how prepared they’ll be when it does.
Severe weather is now one of the biggest drivers of home-insurance claims across the province. The Insurance Bureau of Canada (IBC) reported that in 2024 insured damage caused by severe weather events in Canada surpassed CAD $8 billion, and Ontario has become a major contributor, with repeated flooding, wind, and ice events. This escalating damage places increasing pressure on home-insurance premiums.
So what can you do to protect your home and manage your insurance coverage? Let’s look at the risks, the realities, and the steps that help homeowners stay ahead of the weather.
Why Ontario Homes Are Facing Greater Risk
Over the past decade, the number and intensity of severe-weather events have risen sharply. Warmer air holds more moisture, leading to heavier rainfall, while urban growth adds more pavement that prevents water from soaking into the ground. Even in communities far from large rivers, drainage systems are being overwhelmed.
Common threats include:
- Heavy rainfall and flooding: Sudden downpours exceed sewer capacity and push water into basements.
- Wind and hail damage: High gusts and ice storms tear shingles, siding, and trees.
- Freeze-thaw cycles: Repeated melting and refreezing create ice dams and cracked foundations.
- Widespread power outages: Storms that cut electricity for days can cause frozen pipes, food spoilage, and flooded basements when sump pumps fail.
The ice storm that swept through central and eastern Ontario in late March 2025 was a clear reminder of how unpredictable the weather has become. Residents in Simcoe County and surrounding areas faced multiple days without power — and discovered first-hand how closely home systems and telecommunication depend on electricity. In parts of central Ontario, the storm delivered up to 35 hours of freezing rain and up to 25mm of ice accumulation. In total, the storm left over 1 million people without power across the province.
Understanding What’s Covered — and What’s Not
Many homeowners assume their policy automatically protects against all storm damage, but that’s not always the case. Coverage varies between insurers, and some weather-related risks require optional endorsements or may not be available in your area depending on risk assessments.
Here’s a general guide:
- Wind and hail: Typically included in a standard home policy.
- Water damage from burst pipes: Covered if the cause is sudden and accidental.
- Sewer backup: Optional coverage that must be added.
- Overland flooding (from heavy rain or rising bodies of water): Also optional.
- Groundwater or seepage (from rising water table): Also optional.
Because each insurer defines these perils differently, it’s worth reviewing your policy wording — or better yet, checking with your broker. They can help you tailor coverage to your property’s unique risks.
Practical Ways to Reduce Your Risk
Insurance protects you when things go wrong, but prevention makes a bigger difference — both in peace of mind and in keeping claims (and premiums) lower over time. Here are proven steps Ontario homeowners can take:
Install a sump pump and backwater valve
These systems can dramatically reduce basement flooding. Some municipalities offer rebates for installation, making them a worthwhile long-term investment.
Install a backup generator (permanent or portable)
The spring 2025 ice storm left thousands of Ontario households without power for days. When electricity is out, furnaces stop running, sump pumps shut down, and pipes can freeze — all leading to expensive damage.
A generator can keep essential systems operating until the grid is restored. Even a small portable unit can power a sump pump or furnace fan long enough to prevent a claim. For a permanent standby generator, have it installed by a licensed electrician with a transfer switch, and notify your broker once it’s in place. Some insurers may consider it a form of risk mitigation when evaluating your coverage.
Maintain eavestroughs and downspouts
Clear debris at least twice a year and ensure downspouts discharge water two metres away from your foundation.
Inspect your roof and flashing annually
Loose shingles and cracked seals are weak points that turn a storm into a leak. Routine maintenance is cheaper than a deductible.
Protect basement valuables
Store items off the floor, use plastic bins, and elevate electronics or important papers.
Consider a battery backup for sump pumps
Power often fails right when you need your pump most. A battery backup can save you from flooding during short outages.
Seal foundation cracks and review grading
Professional sealing and proper yard slope help water drain away rather than in.
Trim trees and clear branches near your home
Strong winds or ice buildup can bring limbs down on roofs, decks, or power lines.
How Weather Impacts Your Insurance Premiums
When large-scale weather losses occur, insurers must adjust rates to reflect the overall risk environment. That’s why even homeowners who haven’t filed a claim might see their renewal rate rise.
Working with a broker helps you stay informed and proactive. At McLean & Dickey, we:
- Compare quotes from multiple insurers to find competitive options.
- Recommend coverage enhancements like sewer-backup or overland-water protection.
- Explain deductible options and how they influence premiums.
- Review any available credits for mitigation measures (such as sump-pump installations or monitored alarm systems).
Our role is to help you balance cost and protection — especially as weather risks evolve.
When to Revisit Your Policy
Review your home insurance at least once a year, and any time you make changes that affect value or risk, including:
- Finishing a basement or adding living space.
- Upgrading your roof, windows, or heating system.
- Installing flood protection or a generator.
Keeping your broker updated ensures your coverage reflects your home as it is today — not how it looked five years ago.
Building Resilience Together
Ontario homeowners can’t control the weather, but they can control how they prepare for it. Taking practical steps now — like maintaining drainage systems, installing a generator, or trimming overhanging branches near your home — can prevent major losses later.
We live and work in Orillia, Barrie, Midland, and Muskoka, we understand how quickly weather can change and how local terrain impacts drainage and risk. If you’re not sure what’s in your current policy or you’re considering updating your coverage, let’s talk.
We’ll help you understand what you have, where there may be gaps, and how to make informed decisions before you ever need to file a claim.