An optional service plan, endorsed by Lakeshore's municipal council, offers homeowners in Lakeshore assistance with common plumbing repairs.
The service will protect the water and sewer lines connecting homes to the municipal system.
"As a council, we have made significant progress on our Flood Mitigation and Protection Framework, and this program complements those investments very well," said Lakeshore Mayor Tracey Bailey. "We want to ensure that residents understand their responsibility to maintain and repair their service lines before they're hit with a costly repair."
A survey called "State of the Canadian Home" found half of Canadian homeowners aren't aware they are financially responsible for needed repairs or replacement of water and sewer lines on their property. Repairs can cost hundreds if not thousands of dollars, not typically covered by homeowners insurance. The same report found almost a quarter of Canadians have less than $500 set aside for an emergency.
The plans are low-cost with no deductible and available through Service Line Warranties of Canada. It provides homeowners with reliable access to licensed and insured contractors.
The municipality will send homeowners a notice soon, and there is no obligation to sign up.
"Lakeshore homeowners with a plan can call for service 24/7," said SLWC General Manager Mike Van Horne.
Since the program's inception in 2014, more than 70 Ontario municipalities have endorsed it.
