Checklist - 5 Steps to Take When Water Damage Occurs

1 - Limit the damage

Certain actions can be taken quickly to limit the risks caused by water damage, such as flooding, water ingress or sewer backup.

Act quickly to limit water damage. Here are a few things you should do right away:

• First thing to do: shut off the main water supply if there’s a leak or a burst pipe. If you are a tenant, notify your landlord or superintendent right away before you do anything else.
• Switch off all ventilation systems.
• Mop up or drain the water when it is possible and safe to do so. Otherwise, this could lead to the growth of mold or the proliferation of harmful bacteria.
• Keep all items that are damaged. It's important to elevate your belongings and unplug all your electronics to prevent further damage from water or other elements. This also prevents the risk of electrocution or short circuits that could occur if devices remain connected to a power source.
• Moisture is the best friend of water damage, so if you have a dehumidifier, turn it on in the affected area. Be careful, water and electricity don't mix! Be sure to install the dehumidifier in a dry location.
• Close off the affected area by shutting the door. Monitor the area regularly to prevent further damage in the event of water damage. This way, you can react quickly if necessary!

If you need to carry out urgent repairs, such as plumbing work, keep your invoices and materials that were replaced after the incident. Be sure to take photos of the damage before and after the urgent repairs

Did you know?

Some damage could be prevented by learning more about the climate. The government has made a map of flood zones in Quebec available online. This map gives a general idea of the location of flood and watercourse migration zones.

2 - Notify your insurance company

A claim will need to be opened following the loss. This step allows you to collect all the information needed to assess the water damage, determine how to cover it with the help of a claims expert and choose the appropriate water damage coverage.

• Call your insurer right away to start the claims process. As a general rule, a phone service is available 24 hours a day, 7 days a week.
• You can also make your claim online. A claims expert will contact you as soon as possible and advise you on the steps to be taken following the loss.
• If the damage is significant and your home is no longer habitable, they will suggest relocation solutions. Depending on your insurance policy, you may be reimbursed for your accommodation and meal expenses.

Don't forget that in the event of a claim or if you want to know whether your home insurance covers a particular situation, most insurers provide access to a client space where you can find detailed information about the coverage provided by your policy.

3 - Speak with a claims expert

A claims expert will guide you through the claims process. They will be able to identify and assign the necessary resources to:

• Determine the cause
• Estimate the damage
• Negotiate the settlement based on the terms of your insurance policy

The claims expert is also there to assist you from start to finish. They will explain your coverage and confirm whether or not your claim is admissible under your home insurance policy. They will then review the next steps with you.

You will need to document your claim:

• Make a list of damaged items
• Provide detailed proof (receipts, photos, videos)

4 - Have the repairs done

There are generally three repair options:

Option 1: You can do the repairs yourself.

Option 2: Your insurer can recommend trusted partners, known for their expertise and professionalism.

Option 3: You can choose a contractor to do the repairs.

Good to know: When tests show that moisture and mold levels are normal, repairs can begin.

5 - Pay for the repairs

Remember that a reliable insurer will be with you every step of the way, from the start of the claims process right through to payment for repair work. Remember you will have to pay the deductible, which will be subtracted from the total claim refund.

By following these steps, you'll be better prepared to handle the aftermath. Remember that home insurance experts in Quebec are with you every step of the way. They’ll make sure things are back to normal as quickly as possible so you can enjoy the comfort of your home once more.