8 tips to prevent water damage to your home in winter

This article was originally published on February 8, 2019 and was updated on November 10, 2025.

With files from Jane Switzer

Winter in Canada means cozy nights, snow-covered streets, and, for many homeowners, an increased risk of water damage. From frozen pipes to melting snow seeping into basements, winter brings plenty of ways for water to sneak into your home and your insurance claims history.

The Insurance Bureau of Canada reports that 2024 was the costliest year on record for severe weather-related losses, with insured losses totalling $8.5 billion. Flooding and water damage made up a large share of those claims, and experts say climate change is making these events more frequent and severe.

Without proper insurance coverage, you could be on the hook to pay for winter water damage on your own. This can be a costly expense that could put you in debt, especially as repairing water damage from burst pipes can cost more than $10,000. A new survey shows that nearly one in two Canadians would struggle to cover the cost of an unexpected home repair. In fact, 46% of homeowners have less than $1,000 set aside for emergencies, 15% have no savings at all, and another 10% have less than $500 available, which is well below the typical cost of repairing burst pipes.

Protecting your home before the deep freeze hits can save you from an enormous repair bill and higher home insurance premiums down the road.

Causes of floods and water damage during winter

Cold weather doesn’t stop water damage; it just changes how it happens. When water freezes, it expands, putting pressure on pipes, walls, and even your foundation. That expansion can lead to cracks, leaks, or bursts that cause severe damage once the snow and ice melt.

Here are the leading causes of water damage during winter in Canada:

Frozen pipes

When temperatures drop, water inside your pipes can freeze and expand, leading to bursts that can cause thousands of dollars in damage. Pipes in unheated areas, such as basements, attics, and garages, are most at risk.

Ice dams on the roof

An ice dam forms when heat escapes through your roof, melting snow that then refreezes at the edges. This traps water underneath, which can leak into your ceiling or walls.

Snowmelt and poor drainage

A sudden warm spell or heavy rainfall on top of snow can cause water to pool around your home. Meltwater can seep through cracks into your basement if your grading slopes toward the house or your downspouts are blocked.

Cracked foundation or deteriorating sealant

Small foundation cracks might not seem like a big deal until water seeps in. Once moisture penetrates, freezing and thawing cycles can worsen cracks and make them harder to fix later.

Roof or gutter damage

Loose shingles and clogged gutters prevent proper drainage, forcing water to find another path (often into your attic or behind walls).

8 tips to prevent winter water damage to your home

You can’t control the weather, but you can control how prepared your home is for it. Here are eight things you can do before temperatures drop to prevent costly water damage over the winter:

1. Protect and insulate your pipes

Wrap exposed pipes in insulation sleeves or heat tape, especially in unheated areas. If you’re leaving for an extended winter vacation, keep your thermostat above 13 °C and open cabinet doors under sinks to let warm air circulate.

2. Clear your roof, gutters, and downspouts

Before the first snowfall, clean out leaves and debris so water can drain freely. After storms, use a roof rake to remove heavy snow buildup. Keep downspouts extended at least two metres from your foundation to redirect meltwater away from your home.

3. Inspect your foundation and walls

Walk around your home and look for cracks, gaps, or uneven ground that could allow water in. Seal minor cracks with waterproof caulk and make sure the ground slopes away from the foundation.

4. Install a sump pump or test the one you have

A sump pump can save your basement during a flood. If you already have one, test it at least once a year and consider adding a battery backup in case of a power outage.

5. Add an automatic water shut-off valve

Smart shut-off valves monitor your home’s water flow and automatically turn off the supply if they detect a leak or burst pipe. They can even alert you via your smartphone if you're away when the problem starts.

6. Keep snow away from your home’s perimeter

After shovelling, avoid piling snow directly beside exterior walls. When it melts, that water can run straight toward your foundation.

7. Store valuables off the basement floor

Keep your valuables in an elevated spot. If flooding happens, you’ll be grateful that boxes, electronics, and keepsakes were on shelves instead of sitting in water.

8. Check your roof and attic ventilation

Good attic ventilation helps regulate temperature and prevents ice dams. Look for any signs of water stains or leaks in the attic before winter sets in.

Do insurance companies cover winter flood damage?

Not always. Coverage for water damage depends on the cause and what’s included in your policy. That’s why understanding exactly what your policy includes is essential to protecting yourself and your home. 

Most standard home insurance policies will cover sudden and accidental water damage, like a burst pipe, but not gradual leaks or damage from poor maintenance. Flooding caused by heavy rain, melting snow, or overflowing rivers typically isn’t covered unless you’ve added specific endorsements, such as overland water coverage and sewer backup insurance. To protect your home from these risks, you’ll need to purchase them as add-ons to your policy. 

Also, keep in mind that making multiple claims, especially for water damage, can drive up your premiums or even make it harder to find affordable coverage later. Prevention is always cheaper than repairs, so it pays to stay ahead of the problem.

Also read: Does home insurance cover water damage in Canada?

The bottom line

As severe weather becomes more common, protecting your home from winter water damage is no longer optional; it’s essential. A little preparation now can save you thousands later and help you avoid the stress (and paperwork) of a home insurance claim. 

Take a weekend to inspect, insulate, and clear your property, and you’ll be ready for whatever winter weather brings. To find your most affordable rate, compare home insurance quotes today with Ratehub.ca from Canada’s top providers. 

Also read: 

• 7 winter home insurance tips for Canadian snowbirds
• Should you buy flood insurance in Canada?
• Spring flooding and home insurance: Are you really covered?