Safety first — read this before stepping in
- Do not enter standing water if any electrical outlet, panel, or appliance is submerged. Shut off power at the main breaker first (from a dry location) or call your utility.
- If sewage is backing up, treat it as contaminated — gloves, rubber boots, N95.
Stop the source
- Burst pipe — close the main water valve.
- Sump pump failure — check the breaker; check the float isn't stuck.
- Storm/sewer backup — there's nothing you can do at the source. Move to salvage mode.
Save what you can (in this order)
- Electronics and irreplaceable items (photos, documents) — move upstairs.
- Furniture — block legs up on bricks or move out.
- Rugs — these are usually a loss after sewage exposure.
Get water out
- A wet/dry vac can pull a surprising amount in 30 minutes (~$120 to rent at Home Depot or buy at Canadian Tire).
- A sump pump or trash pump (rented) for major flooding.
- Open windows + fans for airflow once water is gone.
Call now
- Insurance — most policies require notification within 24–48 hours.
- Water damage restoration company — they have commercial-grade dehumidifiers that prevent mold. Most arrive within 2–4 hours in Canadian cities.