Spring in Ontario is a season of renewal, but it also marks the start of the province’s most active storm period. From heavy rainfall and overland flooding to powerful wind events and hailstorms, the months between April and June consistently produce some of the most damaging weather of the year. In 2025 alone, Ontario experienced two major weather disasters: a massive ice storm in late March that knocked out power for 380,000 customers, followed by severe thunderstorms in June that brought torrential rain and fierce winds across central and eastern Ontario.
With extreme weather becoming more frequent and home insurance premiums rising to match (Ontario home insurance costs jumped approximately 7% in 2025, well above the rate of inflation), a spring policy review isn’t just smart, it’s essential.
Review Your Coverage Before the First Big Storm
Standard home insurance policies in Ontario cover many storm-related perils, including wind damage, falling trees, hail, and sudden water damage caused by weather events. However, there are important gaps that catch many homeowners off guard:
- Overland flooding: Damage caused by water entering your home above ground, such as from heavy rainfall or overflowing rivers, is not covered under a standard policy. Overland water coverage must be added as an endorsement, and it’s separate from groundwater and sewer backup, each of which carries its own limits and exclusions.
- Sewer backup: When heavy spring rains overwhelm municipal sewer systems, a growing issue given that water damage now accounts for 48% of all home insurance claims in Canada, sewage can back up into your basement. This coverage must also be added to your policy.
- Additional living expenses: If a storm forces you out of your home due to insured damage, your policy may entitle you to additional living expenses, but confirm this is included in your specific plan.
Walk Your Property With Fresh Eyes
Winter is hard on Ontario homes. Before storm season accelerates, do a thorough exterior inspection:
- Roof and eavestroughs: Ontario’s freeze-thaw cycles accelerate shingle deterioration. Check for damage and clean out eavestroughs, ensuring downspouts direct water away from your foundation.
- Trees and branches: Remove dead branches before storm season, as ice storms and summer winds target weak limbs that can cause serious roof damage.
- Sump pump and backwater valve: Test your sump pump and ensure it has a battery backup. If you don’t have a backwater valve, check with your municipality — many Ontario cities offer rebates up to $3,400 to help cover installation.
- Outdoor furniture and equipment: Secure or store items that could become dangerous in high winds, and confirm that any new structures added over the past year are noted in your policy.
Update Your Home Inventory
A current home inventory is one of the most important and most overlooked tools you have at claims time. Walk through each room, photograph your belongings, and note high-value items like electronics, furniture, and appliances. Store the inventory in a secure digital location and update it regularly. If you’ve renovated or made significant purchases since your last renewal, make sure your coverage limits still reflect the true replacement cost of your home and contents.
Ask Your Broker These Questions
When you connect with your Oracle RMS broker this spring, make sure to ask:
- Do I have overland water and sewer backup coverage, and are my limits sufficient?
- Does my policy cover the full replacement cost of my home, including recent renovations?
- Have my deductibles changed at renewal, particularly for water or wind-related claims?
- Would bundling my home and auto policies lower my overall premium?
- Are there home upgrades like a new roof, updated plumbing, or a backwater valve that could qualify me for a discount?
Don’t Wait for the First Storm Warning
Ontario’s spring storm season can arrive quickly and without much warning. A policy review costs nothing, but the right coverage can save you tens of thousands of dollars after a serious event. Whether you need to add an endorsement, update your limits, or simply confirm you’re protected, now is the time to act.
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Not sure if your policy is ready for spring? Our licensed brokers are here to help.
Contact an Oracle RMS broker today
Phone: 1-905-660-9740
Email: info@oraclerms.com
Claims: 1-866-CLAIM-20 — (24/7)
Or visit us at 100 Drumlin Circle, Concord, ON
