Nearly one-in-five Canadian households are prepared to undertake major renovations within the next 5 to 10 years to mitigate the impacts of severe weather events like wildfires, floods and tornadoes.

In Aviva Canada’s How We Live report, released in August, a new chapter on sustainability and climate change probes how prepared Canadians are for climate adaptation measures. Among respondents, 24 per cent are choosing what home to buy based on whether it’s located in a flood zone, with the highest concern among respondents aged 18 to 34. Most Canadians said that governments, municipalities and real estate agents and builders should provide flood zone information to prospective homeowners.

Ontarians indicated the biggest awareness gap when it comes to understanding flood zones. The report calls for stronger public education programs as less than half of respondents said they understand where to source information on flood risks.

“While we commend the government on Canada’s first National Adaptation Strategy and Action Plan, execution can’t be far behind,” said Susan Penwarden, managing director, personal lines, at Aviva Canada. “Governments need to incentivize homeowners, update flood maps and building codes now because playing environmental catch up is a hard game to play with no winners.”

When it comes to inside their homes, eco-friendly renovations are top of mind for 71 per cent of Canadians who are planning to switch to energy saving appliances; 69 per cent would switch to eco-friendly cleaning products and 60 per cent favour using reclaimed materials or products for renovations or upgrades.

Outside the home, 42 per cent said they’re planning to purchase an electric vehicle within the next five years, while 58 per cent will choose brands or services provided by companies that are taking action on climate change.