How to deal with flood damage in your home
Watch the flood-damage discussion with Philip Strunc of GTA Restoration.
Knowing how to deal with flood damage starts with a careful response: protect people first, document the damage when safe, and arrange an assessment before repairs begin.
If there is any standing water or sewage, don’t enter the area, warns Philip Strunc
Water and sewage leaks are a hassle and annoying, and can also be a health hazard. The proper management of these problems is very important and will help keep your home a healthy home. Here are five essential steps to discuss with the people helping you.
1. Put Safety First After Flood Damage
The first thing to do is to safely stop whatever is causing the damage. If there is any standing water or sewage, don’t enter the area as it may be dangerous and there might be the possibility of electrocution.
2. Contact Your Insurer and a Contractor
Second, you should contact your insurance provider (if you will be making a claim) or contact a professional renovation contractor that has experience in the type of work that needs to be done. You can search for a professional RenoMark™ Renovator at www.RenoMark.ca.
3. Assess Water Removal and Affected Materials
Once access is safe, the contractor can assess water removal, contamination and damaged materials. The extent of removal depends on the conditions; there is no single demolition height that fits every flood. Ask for a written scope and an explanation of how hidden damage or additional work will be priced.
4. Plan Cleanup and Drying
Next, the affected area needs appropriate cleanup and drying. Ask how moisture will be monitored before materials are enclosed or replaced. For general guidance, see Health Canada’s flood cleanup information.
Before repairs, confirm permit requirements with Toronto Building. The City of Toronto’s permit guide explains common projects that require a permit.
5. Agree on the Repair Plan
Finally, discuss the repair scope, schedule and any required approvals. If you are making an insurance claim, ask your insurer what documentation and authorizations are needed. Coverage depends on your policy and the cause of the damage.
Never let any contractor do any work without a proper contract. You should receive a quote that identifies the work that will be done, any important exclusions of work that they will not do, payment terms and a timeline for the project.
Don’t sign any agreement immediately and you are also encouraged to get a second or third quote to ensure that you are not getting taken advantage of. Also, understand that the lowest price isn’t always the best choice.
These types of situations are stressful and surely you weren’t prepared for it. Just remember to take your time and don’t sign anything without properly reading and understanding it. If you have any questions, a professional contractor will take the time to explain and answer all of your questions.
Philip Strunc is a senior project manager of GTA Restoration, for more information go to Water Damage Toronto Mold Removal Blog.
For help with flood damage in Toronto or the GTA, call 416-888-3054 or contact Restoration Toronto.
How to Deal with Flood Damage: Keep a Clear Project Record
First, create a simple record of the incident date, rooms affected and the people you have spoken with. Add photographs only when you can take them safely. Keep estimates, approved changes and invoices in the same place so you can follow the work from assessment through repairs.
Next, ask who will update you about drying, access and the repair schedule. If several contractors are involved, clarify who is responsible for each task. For example, fixing the source of a leak may be separate from repairing a damaged wall.
Finally, review the completed work against the agreed scope. Note any remaining repairs or follow-up inspections and keep the relevant contact details. Understanding how to deal with flood damage includes knowing what remains outstanding after the immediate cleanup.
