Common Causes of Emergency Water Damage in Toronto

Emergency water damage in Toronto homes and business properties can happen in many ways, from a leaky hose of a washing machine to a catastrophic storm that has ravaged the country. Some of the most common sources of water damage come from:

Flooding and storm damage - This may be caused by heavy rains in the area and also by rising rivers or storm surge over a wide area.

Leaking appliances - Appliances are a very common source of household floods, such as leaks stemming from a water supply line in your washing machine, dish washer or refrigerator with an automatic ice maker.

Sink, toilet and bathtub overflows - When there is a clog in the plumbing system, water will start backing up into your bathtub, and when the bathtub drain gets too clogged you will start seeing the backup in the toilet and the sink as well.

Flooded basements – This usually occurs when there is general flooding in the area, like when a nearby river overflows and water pools above the house foundation grade outside the house because it is improperly sloped. Flood in the basement can also be caused by not enough drainage around basement walls or a faulty sump pump.

Damage caused by high winds, tornadoes and hail - Property owners need to be aware that Canada is one of the most tornado-prone countries in the world, so it’s good to take caution whenever there is a high-wind storm as it can sometimes push water inland and become capable of extreme damage.

Hurricanes and tidal surges - A storm surge is an abnormal rise in the water level and are likely caused by a severe storm such as a tropical cyclone or a hurricane that brings strong winds and heavy rains.

Ice and snowstorms - Heavy snowfall and ice buildup can cause a backup in your gutters and create ice dams especially in the roof which can cause water damage when snow or ice melts and seeps into your home. Extreme cold snaps can freeze pipes and can cause water damage if the pipes burst. Seasonal spring snow melt can also lead to flooding.

Sewage backups – Cracks and leaks in the sewer line system can cause blockage that can lead to sewage to back up into the house through drain pipes.

Flooding from firefighting efforts – Firefighting efforts can leave a home or property with extensive water damage due to the pressurized water used to extinguish the fire.

When water enters your property, you need to move quickly to remove the water and clean up and dry your home and belongings properly in order to stop the health risks and prevent any more secondary damage. Water can quickly spread throughout your property and saturate everything in its path within minutes. Mold can start growing in less than 48 hours and can cause serious contamination that can pose a threat to people’s health.

Many homeowners and business owners may think about handling the water damage on their own to save on costs. The truth is, however, that any kind of emergency water damage in Toronto will need professional assistance. Only the pros have the qualified manpower and proper equipment to effectively assess the damage, remove the water, dry and dehumidify, clean and sanitize and restore your home or property to a safe and healthy living environment.