Water Damage and Sewer Backup: What Steps Should You Follow?

Water damage and sewer backups, which many Quebecers experienced this weekend with the remnants of Storm Debby, are situations no one wishes to face but can unfortunately happen at any time. Whether it’s a flood, a burst pipe, or a sewer backup, these incidents can cause significant damage to your property. So, what should you do if this happens to you? Here are the steps to take to minimize damage and effectively manage the situation.

Ensure Your Safety

The first priority in the event of water damage or a sewer backup is to ensure that you and your family are safe. If water is in contact with electrical sources, do not touch anything and leave the area immediately. If the water is from a major flood, it is crucial to evacuate the premises until authorities inform you that it is safe to return. If possible and safe, cut off electricity in affected areas to avoid any risk of electrocution.

Contact Your Insurer

Once you are safe, contact your insurance company as soon as possible to report the damage. Most home insurance policies cover water damage and sewer backups, but it’s essential to follow your insurer’s recommended procedures. Take photos and videos of the damage before beginning any repairs, as these will be needed for your claim.

Call an Emergency Restoration Professional

Water damage often requires professional intervention to prevent further damage, such as mold. Contact a disaster restoration company to assess the situation and begin cleaning and drying work. These professionals have the equipment and expertise needed to handle water damage effectively and safely.

Start Repairs

After damage assessment and the start of the restoration process, you can begin planning necessary repairs. This may include replacing damaged materials, repairing plumbing or sewer systems, and restoring your property. Make sure the work is done by qualified professionals to ensure your home is restored correctly and safely.

Future Prevention

Of course, it’s difficult to completely safeguard against major events like the ones we experienced this weekend. The government and cities need to review and adapt their infrastructure to the increasingly extreme climate challenges. If you live in a flood-prone area or one increasingly susceptible to water damage, it may be wise to rebuild with future flood and water damage risks in mind, if possible. Here are some measures to consider:

• Use water-resistant materials: Choose durable materials that are easy to clean in case of water damage.
• Install effective drainage: Set up drainage systems to divert water away from the house.
• Rethink landscaping: Design the landscape to facilitate water runoff.
• Create elevated living spaces: Place main living areas above ground level to protect them.
• Raise the foundation: Extreme, but in some cases very effective: elevate your home to protect it from flooding.

These strategies will help you better protect your home against future water damage.

Conclusion

Water damage and sewer backups can cause considerable stress and significant property damage. However, by following the appropriate steps, you can limit the impacts and restore your home more quickly. The key lies in quick action, hiring qualified professionals, and implementing preventive measures to protect your property in the future. As real estate brokers, we understand how important it is to preserve the value of your property. Proper preparation allows you to overcome these difficult situations while ensuring the safety and longevity of your home. Don’t hesitate to contact us for additional advice or any real estate-related questions.