Home flooding is no laughing matter. Whether caused by rainfall, burst pipes or as a byproduct of a fire, water damage can have a significant impact on your quality of life, causing damage that’s not only immediately visible, but can also produce long-term problems if not dealt with quickly.

There has been an unusually high amount of rainfall in parts of the country this year, making basement floods a much more common occurrence than usual. Pair this with the fact that basements than ever are finished rooms, and you have a recipe for a soggy and potentially expensive disaster.

Why professional water damage restoration matters

It’s essential for water and residual moisture to be removed as quickly and thoroughly as possible. The longer moisture is allowed to remain, the greater the chances of structural damage to walls and floors. Additionally, an untreated moisture problem can lead to development of unhealthy mold, which is not only unsightly and hard to get rid of, but can cause minor respiratory problems in people with sensitivity, or severe illnesses in immune-compromised people.

The unfortunate truth is that many homeowners try to remedy the problem themselves, but lack the experience to thoroughly minimize water damage. Proper restoration is a multistep process designed to remove water from the home, minimize property damage and prevent any long-term problems.

Procedures typically include:

  • Assessment of damage
  • Water removal
  • Drying and dehumidifying
  • Deodorizing
  • Mold prevention

Be prepared in advance


    No one expects to have their home damaged by flooding. When it happens, emotions run high and panic has a tendency to set in, leading to poor, un-researched choices for professional help.

    That’s why it’s a good idea to research in advance. Find and browse listings of disaster restoration professionals, read reviews, visit their websites and request a few quotes.   Once you’ve settled on a minimum of three potential services, add their contact information to your emergency numbers. That way, if disaster ever strikes, you’ll already know just who to call.

    You can also ensure that your home is equipped with some essential flood prevention items. The City of Toronto (and many other Canadian cities) offers a Basement Flooding Protection program designed to help homeowners protect their homes from flooding. This subsidy program can help pay for various items such as backwater valves, sump pumps and weeping tiles.

    Looking for a water damage restoration service? Find a host of water damage pros and other disaster restorations specialists on eieihome.com.

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