Floods and water damage: how to protect yourself

Every year, many Quebeckers have to contend with the whims of Mother Nature at the arrival of spring. Flooding and water damage from melting snow can cause serious damage to your home. Here are some tips to protect your home from Canadian flooding and react effectively if bad luck knocks on your door.

How to protect your home effectively

To avoid any problem, it is better to remove and remove the snow that is around the house. By doing this work, the snow will melt away from the house and you will significantly reduce the risk of infiltration. Also avoid letting ice and snow accumulate on the roof, balconies of your home, or on your above ground pool. If you have any doubts about snow removal or deicing your roof, use a professional for a job in the rules of art! However, the most effective underground water infiltration prevention measures should have been taken in the fall of this year! For example: * Gutters should be cleaned and connected properly to prevent rainwater seepage. * Also, be sure to caulk basement windows and install curbs if they are less than 20 cm above the floor. * Inspect the basement walls for cracks or dark circles that may require the intervention of a contractor. * Also, make sure that the French drain and the holding tank which are used to evacuate excess water on the floor are functional, just like the check valve's tipping gate, which must be cleaned to do its job properly.

What to do in case of flood or water damage

First, make sure your home is safe before taking action. If it is water damage, use the services of a plumber and close the main water inlet of your home. Do not delay contacting your insurer as soon as possible to start the claims process. Then a professional cleaning is required. Dry out all surfaces that can be: use fans and dehumidifiers and get a vacuum cleaner specifically designed for water. Sissy cushions and chairs will dry more evenly if they are supported vertically against a wall. To prevent the situation from getting worse, raise your furniture with blocks of wood or Styrofoam or move them to a non-flooded room. Take pictures of all the damage and make a list of the property damaged by the water.

Is it covered by home insurance?

Many people believe their residence is flood-proof, but this is not always the case. In fact, home insurance contracts can offer coverage against the different types of water damage that can damage your home ... even for the overflow of a watercourse. On the other hand, the water damage that occurs inside the house, such as a forgotten faucet or a faulty pipe, is usually covered automatically by basic home insurance policies.