Service Line Warranties of Canada

The City of Kenora has partnered with Service Line Warranties of Canada (SLWC), an independent company, to offer eligible homeowners optional repair plans to help protect against unexpected and expensive emergency repairs to water and sewer service lines or well and septic lines on private property.

Participation in the program is optional and voluntary for homeowners in the City of Kenora.

SLWC Plans available in the City of Kenora
Coverage	Cost
Exterior water service line	$5.75 per month plus any applicable taxes
Exterior sewer or septic line	$8.00 per month plus any applicable taxes
Interior plumbing and drainage	$6.50 per month plus any applicable taxes

Signing up for a plan means you will access these benefits:

A repair hotline available 24/7, 365 days a year
Pay $0 for covered repairs up to a benefit amount
Repairs performed by an insured and licensed plumber
One-year guarantee on covered repairs

Homeowners' responsibility

Water and sewer service lines connect a homeowner’s property to the City of Kenora’s water and sewer systems. As the homeowner, you are responsible for any necessary repairs to the portion of these lines located on your property. This includes fixing issues like leaks, breaks, or clogs. If a problem occurs, you will need to hire and pay for a plumber or contractor to handle repairs. These issues can happen suddenly and without warning, which can result in an unexpected and expensive emergency repair. Keep in mind that the lifespan of a service line can vary depending on factors like construction material, soil conditions, and nearby trees.

Repairs to your water and sewer service lines are usually not covered by basic homeowners' insurance. You are encouraged to check with your current provider to find out if you have coverage, what the deductible is and what the exclusions are. Some providers may offer coverage as an add-on. You may also consider coverage from an external service plan provider like Service Line Warranties of Canada.

Coloured drawing of home and service lines

Frequently asked questions about SLWC

Who is SLWC?

SLWC is an independent company, separate from your local utility or community. SLWC is partnered with the Association of Municipalities of Ontario (AMO) and plans are available in over 70 municipalities across Ontario.

Why did Kenora partner with SLWC?

There are several benefits the voluntary SLWC program brings to Kenora and its residents, including:

Educating residential property owners about their responsibilities for the maintenance, repair and replacement of water service and sewer lines (portion from their homes to the property line) – at no cost to the City of Kenora.
Assuring the City of Kenora that all repairs are performed to code and that all appropriate permitting is pulled.
Reducing expense to property owners and the City of Kenora because the service plans encourage residents to report exterior water service and sewer/septic leaks in a timely manner. Timely exterior water service line repairs conserve water and reduce water loss for the city. Timely sewer/septic line repairs also minimize wastewater pollution, helping the environment.
Resulting in fewer calls and involvement of City of Kenora personnel regarding infrastructure that is the responsibility of property owners saves overall taxpayers money.

Doesn’t my homeowners insurance already cover these repairs?

Typically, no. Most homeowners are surprised to learn that they are responsible for the repair and replacement of broken or leaking utility lines on their property. While most basic homeowners policies will pay to repair the damage created by failed utility lines, they typically do not cover the cost of the repair of the line itself. SLWC encourages residents to call their insurance company to determine their actual coverage.

Does this coverage include well lines?

Yes, coverage provides for repair or replacement of either water service or well lines, as well as septic lines.

Why does SLWC use the City of Kenora logo in its marketing materials?

The City of Kenora allows SLWC to use its logo in communications to indicate that there is a formal relationship in place and to let residents know that the offering is legitimate, it is for the residents’ benefit and has the approval of the City of Kenora. All mailings SLWC sends to Kenora residents are first reviewed and approved by City staff prior to use.

SLWC is committed to transparency in all its communications. All SLWC materials clearly state that the services the company offers are voluntary and that they are offered by SLWC, a private company that is separate from the City of Kenora.

How can I stop getting mail from SLWC?

To be removed from future mailings, contact SLWC by calling 1-844-616-8444.

Service Line Warranties of Canada (SLWC) is an independent company, separate from the City of Kenora, local utility, or community, offering service plans covering water and sewer service line repairs on private property. The program is solely managed by SLWC and uses no public funds. SLWC will not contact you or solicit in person or by phone. If you choose to enroll in this program, you should know that the City of Kenora in no way warrants or is liable for the work or performance of SLWC.