What To Do If Your Home Floods

Flooding can strike when you least expect it, and even Toronto’s most expensive homes aren’t immune. Whether you're living in a cozy bungalow or a multi-million-dollar mansion in Bridle Path, you could find yourself dealing with flood damage. Just ask Drake, who recently shared footage of a large flood wreaking havoc on his luxurious home.

While images of the GTA’s widespread floods from last month were shared across social media, the reality for many homeowners is far more daunting—dealing with the aftermath and extensive damage. If your home has been affected, the journey to recovery may feel overwhelming. The good news? With the right steps, you can begin to restore your home and safeguard it against future floods.

Here’s a guide to help you navigate what to do after a flood:

1. Contact the City Immediately

If you’re dealing with an active flood, contact the City right away. Crews are typically available 24/7 to respond to calls about flooded basements. You can report the issue by calling 311, but avoid entering the flooded area—especially if power is still on, as water and electricity can be a deadly combination. If the water level has risen near outlets or the electrical panel, call Hydro to disconnect the power.

Also, watch for gas leaks. If you smell gas, leave the home immediately and call your gas company.

2. Document the Damage

If you have home insurance, it's essential to report the flood damage as soon as possible. Take detailed photos of the affected areas and save receipts for any emergency repairs or cleanup services. Keep in mind, homeowners are responsible for damage caused by private drainage issues, leaking foundations, or poor lot drainage. However, in certain cases, you may be able to submit a claim to the City if you can prove the flood was due to the City’s negligence.

3. Prioritize Health and Safety

Floods pose serious health risks, and it’s important to take precautions when cleaning up. If possible, hire a professional cleaning service experienced in handling contaminated areas. Bring in a licensed electrician to assess any electrical hazards before using any appliances or outlets. Contaminated items, such as fabrics or textiles, should be discarded if they cannot be properly cleaned.

It’s also essential to remove drywall and insulation that came into contact with floodwater. Be thorough when sanitizing all surfaces, and make sure the area is dried and ventilated to prevent mold. And of course, keep children and pets out of the affected areas to avoid exposure to hazardous conditions.

4. Look Into Flood Prevention

Once the immediate cleanup is done, it’s time to think about the future. For Toronto homeowners, you can take advantage of the City’s Basement Flooding Protection Subsidy Program. Through this initiative, owners of single-family homes, duplexes, triplexes, and fourplexes can receive up to $3,400 per property to install flood protection measures. Eligible improvements include backwater valves, sump pumps, and the severance of storm sewer connections.

It's worth noting that while disconnecting downspouts from your eavestrough system is beneficial, it is not eligible for the subsidy.

5. Prepare for Future Storms

The storm that hit the GTA last month was one of the worst in decades, but it's not an isolated incident. In January 2020, record-breaking rainfall also caused widespread flooding. With climate change leading to more intense and frequent storms, water damage is becoming a growing concern for homeowners. There have been numerous reported floods during the Winter and Spring months as well, when rapid melting of snow and ice can lead to flooding. Taking preventative measures now can help protect your property—and your peace of mind—in the years to come.

Flooding can be a nightmare, but by acting quickly and responsibly, you can begin to repair the damage and better protect your home against future disasters.