Be a flood ready renter
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Get informed
In the event of a flood, renters, not their landlords, are responsible for repairing or replacing any belongings that are damaged by floodwaters.
In most cases, your landlord's insurance policy will cover their property and the physical building you're renting, but not your personal property.
Many people don't realize how many possessions they have, from furniture, and clothing, to bicycles and electronics. The cost to replace them can add up quickly.
Take action
Whether you rent an apartment, condo or house, there are things you can do to be flood ready.
Talk to your landlord
- It's never too soon, or too late, to talk to your landlord about your home's flood risk and home flood protection. Important questions include:
- What do you know about this area's flood history?
- Has there ever been a flood in this building? Do you know what caused it?
- What do you do regularly, and what have you done, to protect this building or unit from flood damage?
- Discuss tenant and landlord responsibilities before, during, and after a flood to understand:
- How home flood protection is managed, including monitoring for drainage issues in and around the property and maintaining sump pump systems, backwater valves, and other installed flood protection systems
Your provincial, territorial or local government provides information about landlord and tenant rights and responsibilities in the event of an emergency that affects your health and safety.
Ensure your insurance covers flood expenses
- Talk to an insurance professional about adding optional insurance coverage to:
- repair and replace items damaged by overland flooding
- pay for additional living expenses if you're temporarily displaced due to overland flooding
- Create an inventory of your belongings and their estimated value. Take photos or videos of items and keep a record of receipts
Things to consider when you review your new or existing tenant insurance policy:
- A standard policy often includes contents coverage, additional living expenses and personal liability
- Learn about what additional coverage is available for flooding and determine your coverage needs
- Understand the difference between damages caused by overland flooding, sewer backups and other causes of water damage
- You may be able to update your policy during an existing term
- Depending on where you live, tenant insurance may not be mandatory, but it may be required by your landlord as specified in your lease
Take actions around your home
You can improve your flood resilience by taking simple steps.
Outside your home:
Inside your home:
- Move your belongings
- Elevate or move appliances
- Install a water alarm
- Purchase overland flood insurance
Discover more ways to protect your home from flooding and to help your community be flood ready.
Stay informed
Keep up with the news so you can act fast:
- Weather alerts
- Sign up for weather alert services to receive warnings and advisories about floods
- Trusted sources
- Follow updates from provincial, territorial, and local emergency management officials, TV news, radio stations, and dedicated websites
- Social media
- Follow accounts such as X (@Safety_Canada and @Get_Prepared) and Facebook (@EmergencyReadyinCanada) for ongoing tips and updates