A 90-year-old Ottawa man is grappling with extensive flood damage to his basement after the Canada Day storm, only to discover his insurance policy does not cover the destruction. The man, whose identity has not been disclosed, is among many Ottawa residents left uncertain about what their insurance will or will not cover following the devastating flooding that struck the city on July 1.
Flooding devastates Ottawa on Canada Day
The Canada Day storm brought unprecedented rainfall to Ottawa, causing widespread flooding in basements and low-lying areas. Many homeowners are now facing costly repairs, with some discovering gaps in their insurance coverage. The 90-year-old resident told CTV News that his basement was completely destroyed, but his insurance company denied his claim, citing policy exclusions for overland flooding.
According to the Insurance Bureau of Canada, standard home insurance policies typically do not cover overland flooding unless specifically added as an endorsement. Many homeowners are unaware of this exclusion until disaster strikes.
Uncertainty over coverage widespread
The elderly man's predicament is not unique. Numerous Ottawa residents are now reviewing their policies with confusion and frustration. Local insurance brokers report a surge in calls from clients seeking clarity on what is covered. Some policies may cover sewer backup but not floodwater entering through windows or doors.
"We're seeing a lot of heartbreak," said a local insurance adjuster who spoke on condition of anonymity. "People assume they're fully covered, but the fine print can be devastating."
Calls for policy reform
The situation has reignited calls for mandatory flood insurance or government assistance programs. In recent years, Canada has experienced more frequent and severe flooding, leading to increased awareness but slow regulatory change. The federal government has been urged to create a national flood insurance program, but progress has been limited.
"No one should be left without recourse after a natural disaster," said a spokesperson for the Consumer Protection Association. "We need to ensure that vulnerable populations, especially seniors, are not left to bear the burden alone."
As Ottawa cleans up, residents are advised to document all damage, contact their insurance providers, and seek professional advice. The city has also set up information centers to help residents navigate the claims process.
