August 15, 2023 – Homeowners in Niagara Falls now have access to optional service plans to assist with the cost and management of common plumbing repairs thanks to a new, voluntary program for residents, reviewed by local leaders. The service plans provide protection for the water and sewer service lines that connect a resident’s home to Niagara Falls’ system.
The 2022 “State of the Canadian Home” survey found that 40% of Canadian homeowners are unaware that they are financially responsible for needed repairs or replacement to the water and sewer lines on their property. These repairs are not covered under standard homeowner’s insurance or by the City of Niagara Falls.
“Learning that you’re responsible for the repair and replacement of your water service line after it’s already leaking or broken is stressful and can be a huge financial hit to our residents,” said Erik Nickel, General Manager of Municipal Works. “We want our residents to be aware of their responsibilities before an emergency happens and to prepare themselves. This optional program gives them the opportunity to do both.”
The no-deductible, low-cost service plans, available through Service Line Warranties of Canada (SLWC), ensure homeowners do not have to pay hundreds or even thousands out-of-pocket for a repair. This is especially important since the “State of the Canadian Home” survey found that nearly one in five (19%) Canadian homeowners have nothing set aside for an emergency. The plans give Niagara Falls homeowners reliable access to local, licensed and insured contractors who can quickly and professionally complete needed repairs on service lines.
Homeowners will soon receive information in the mail about the program and available service plans. There is no obligation to sign up for a plan – participation in the program is voluntary. The mailings are administered by SLWC but include Niagara Falls’ logo to indicate that the mailing is legitimate and that there is a partnership in place between the City of Niagara Falls and SLWC.
The program is provided at no cost to the City of Niagara Falls and no public funds are used to promote or administer it.
“A SLWC service plan is a smart way for homeowners to prepare for a home emergency. These plans take the worry, inconvenience, and financial burden out of the repair,” said Mike Van Horne, General Manager, Service Line Warranties of Canada. “Niagara Falls homeowners with a plan have easy access to a network of excellent, local contractors, and they get peace of mind that they won’t be financially responsible for a covered home repair emergency.”
Homeowners in 70 Ontario municipalities now have access to SLWC service repair plans. Since the SLWC program began in 2014, homeowners have saved more than $8 million in repair expenses. Niagara Falls homeowners with questions or who wish to receive more information about SLWC or the plans available to residents can call 1-844-616-8444 or visit www.slwofc.ca.
About Service Line Warranties of Canada
Service Line Warranties of Canada (SLWC) is part of HomeServe, a leading provider of home repair solutions serving nearly 5 million customers across North America since 2003.
Launched in 2014, SLWC is the trusted source of utility line protection programs in Ontario as recognized by the Local Authority Services, part of the Association of Municipalities Ontario ( AMO). SLWC is also a corporate partner of the Federation of Canadian Municipalities.
Together with HomeServe, SLWC is dedicated to supplying best-in-class repair plans and delivering superior customer service to consumers through over 1,200 leading city, municipal and utility partners across North America.