Homeowners who have experienced major flooding know how stressful this ordeal can be. From evacuating the property, to managing the work, to the insurance claims process, such an incident can be emotionally draining, and result in huge material or financial losses. Whether it’s due to torrential rains – which affected many parts of Quebec and Ontario this summer – or annual spring flooding, it’s crucial to act quickly to minimize damage.
Here’s a five-step guide to leaving nothing to chance.
Prepare yourself before the unexpected happens: make an action plan
Planning is always your greatest asset. Even before a flood strikes, make sure you have an action plan in place. First, ensure that your account information with your insurance company is ready and accessible. For example, have a picture of your policy saved on your smartphone.
Next, draw up an emergency evacuation plan with all members of your family in mind, so that everyone knows what their role is during an event such as a fire or flood. Ask yourself questions to ensure everyone’s safety. For example, who will look after your pets? Should you avoid opening doors? Who is responsible for contacting the emergency services? Remember that if water infiltration into your home is severe, avoid walking in the water, especially if it’s deep or you can’t see the bottom, as it may hide hazards such as debris or connected electrical wires. Don’t forget that flood water, especially in the case of a sewage backup, can contain dangerous pathogens.
Run simulations as needed, and list the essential steps in the form of a checklist. This will help you to be better organized when the time comes.
If you have to leave the house, be sure to turn off all circuit breakers and gas valves to avoid the risk of electrocution or explosion.
Document the damage: Don’t let any details slip away
Once you’ve secured the premises, it’s important to document the damage caused by the flood for your insurance company. Take photos and videos of all parts of your property affected by the water, including furniture, appliances and damaged structures. This will be a benefit during the claims process and help you obtain adequate compensation for the damage.
Contact your insurer: Know your coverage for a smoother recovery
Inform your insurance company of the situation as soon as possible. During the call, your insurer will gather details on the nature of the flood, and provide details on the coverage included in your insurance contract, the amount that can be claimed, and the amount of the deductible you’ll have to pay, if any. Your policy may cover additional costs related to lodging or food until your home is habitable again. Be sure to ask if these services are included in your plan.
Note that there are several different insurance interpretations of flooding, but they generally boil down to water coming from outside the house, sewer backup, river overflow and water above ground. Normally, an insurer will advise you on the appropriate course of action based on your postal code.
If you are entitled to coverage, provide your insurer with details of the water infiltration (the amount of water, the source of the infiltration, whether it is sewer backup or rainwater, the extent of the damage, etc.) as well as any visual evidence you have collected. Your insurer will guide you through the next steps in filing a claim and the temporary measures you can take to limit the damage. Don’t forget to keep all receipts for emergency repairs or temporary accommodation.
Clean-up time: Tidying up your home
Once you’ve received the green light from your insurer and confirmed all the details included in your coverage, it’s time for the big clean-up. The insurer will dispatch a post-disaster team to your home to begin removing water from the premises using industrial pumps, fans and dehumidifiers.
Once the clean-up is complete, your insurer can begin the repair work. It’s important to understand that your insurance company will repair the damage caused by water infiltration, but not necessarily the cause of the infiltration, such as a crack in the foundation.
In the event that you don’t have recourse to insurance, it will be essential to call in professionals to inspect the damage and make the necessary repairs to your home.
Learn from it: Prepare for the future
While you’ll want to move on quickly once this ordeal is over, it’s important to take a post-mortem look at what you could have done differently after a flood. This will be especially true if your property is increasingly prone to flooding.
For example, have you put preventive measures in place to prevent large-scale damage? Have you obtained professional recommendations for sealing a foundation crack? Have you modified the materials used in your basement to make it more watertight? Have you adjusted your duct management to limit damage? If a similar event were to happen again, would you be better prepared to deal with it?
Residential flooding is a difficult ordeal, but by following these five steps, you can reduce the impact and protect your assets. Keep in mind that every situation is unique, and that it’s essential to surround yourself with professionals to guide you through the process. By being well prepared and learning from the experience, you’ll strengthen your resilience in the face of the unexpected. Remember, the key is prevention and quick action to preserve what matters most.
*The information provided in this article is for information purposes only and does not constitute professional advice. Every flood situation can be different, and it’s essential to consult an expert for specific recommendations tailored to your case.
