Cleaning After Flooding or Water Damage
Flooding and significant water intrusion — from basement flooding, burst pipes, roof leaks, or storm damage — is unfortunately a recurring reality for many Ontario homeowners. The cleanup approach after water damage is critically important: done incorrectly, it results in persistent mould problems that require costly professional remediation months later.
Safety First
Before entering a flooded space, shut off the electricity to the affected area at the breaker panel — water and live electrical circuits are a life-safety emergency. If you're uncertain whether the electrical system is compromised, stay out and call an electrician before entering. If the flooding involved sewage backflow (black water), treat the entire area as a biological hazard — gloves, eye protection, and N95 mask minimum, and professional remediation is the appropriate response.
The 48-Hour Window
Mould can begin establishing in a wet environment within 24–48 hours. The critical window for preventing mould is the 48 hours after the water event — during this time, removing water, drying all surfaces, and establishing aggressive air circulation is the priority. Rent industrial air movers and dehumidifiers from a local equipment rental if needed; household fans alone are insufficient for significant water damage.
What Can Be Cleaned vs What Must Be Replaced
- Hard surfaces (concrete, tile, painted drywall): Can be cleaned and dried if not structurally compromised
- Drywall that was fully submerged or wet for 24+ hours: Must be replaced — it will mould from the interior regardless of surface cleaning
- Carpet and padding: Carpet padding that was wet must be replaced; carpet can sometimes be saved with rapid extraction and professional drying, but replacement is often more cost-effective