06/21/2026
To anyone dealing with water infiltration or flooding after last night’s torrential rain, I’m truly sorry. It is stressful, overwhelming, and often hard to know where to start.
A few important steps:
First, stay safe. Do not enter standing water if there is any chance it has reached electrical outlets, appliances, the electrical panel, or wiring. If you smell gas, see structural damage, or notice anything unsafe, leave and call 911 or the proper emergency service. Québec also advises checking for hazards like fallen wires, gas smells, major debris, cracks, bulging walls, or signs that the structure may be unsafe.
Document everything right away. Take photos and videos before moving or throwing anything out. Make a list of damaged items, materials, rooms affected, and any immediate expenses. Québec recommends creating an inventory with photos or videos because your municipality, insurer, or mortgage lender may request it.
Call your insurance company or broker as soon as possible. Ask specifically whether you have coverage for sewer backup, water infiltration, overland water, or flood damage, because policies vary. Infoassurance advises contacting your insurer quickly, limiting further damage, drying and disinfecting affected areas, and keeping receipts for emergency expenses.
Call 311 if you are in Montréal and there are concerns about the structure. Montréal says to inspect for cracks, bulges, crumbling mortar, foundation damage, or structural weakness after flooding, and to call 311 to schedule an inspection if needed. If there is immediate danger, leave and call 911.
Start drying quickly, but carefully. Remove water if safe, ventilate, use dehumidifiers, and avoid closing up damp walls or floors before they are properly dried. Keep receipts for pumps, fans, cleanup, emergency repairs, hotel stays, or disposal costs.
Do not rush into major repairs without guidance. Before replacing flooring, drywall, baseboards, insulation, or cabinetry, speak with your insurer or a qualified restoration professional. What looks dry on the surface may still be wet underneath.
For prevention going forward: check gutters, downspouts, grading, sump pumps, backwater valves, foundation cracks, window wells, and whether water is being directed away from the house. Montréal recommends identifying vulnerabilities before heavy rains and taking measures to prevent water from entering the building.
As a real estate broker, I know how emotional it is when your home is affected. This is not just property damage; it is your space, your peace of mind, and often years of memories. Take it one step at a time: safety first, documentation second, insurance third. And please reach out if you need help figuring out who to call or what questions to ask. As a real estate broker, I know how emotional it is when your home is affected. This is not just property damage; it is your space, your peace of mind, and often years of memories. Take it one step at a time: safety first, documentation second, insurance third. And please reach out if you need help figuring out who to call or what questions to ask.
Gia Paccione - 514-570-5784
Real Estate Broker | RE/MAX
Team Paccione