After a flood

Steps you can take to reduce your risk after a flood.

Read through each section to learn how to stay safe before, during, and after a flood.

Before returning home

Residents should not return to the evacuated area post-flood until told it is safe to do so by safety officials.

Additional hazards after waters recede

Erosion

The force of flood waters can cause unstable infrastructure by wearing down the foundations of roads, bridges, buildings, pipes, and power lines, etc.

Debris

The force of flood waters can cause items or debris to become hazardous, such as trees and power lines, or cause contamination.

Contamination

Many dangerous substances can get mixed in with flood waters, such as concentrations of garbage, sewage, and other toxic pollutants.

Essential services

It may not be safe to enter back into a community before power, water, sewage, and fuel services have been repaired.

Returning home​

Do not return home until authorities say it is safe to do so.

Checklists for returning home

Returning Home Safely After a Flood Information Package

PDF • 356.82KB • Issued April 30, 2021

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After the Flood – Property Owner’s Checklist

PDF • 189.98KB • Issued January 21, 2026

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Ensure the regular water supply has been inspected and officially declared safe for use.

If the main power switch was not turned off prior to flooding, do not re-enter your home until a qualified electrician has determined it is safe to do so.

Check for any damage to electrical or gas equipment that may have been caused by floodwater.

Do not use any appliances, heating, pressure, or sewage system until electrical components have been thoroughly cleaned, dried, and inspected by a qualified electrician.

Clean and disinfect all surfaces impacted by flooding.

You should not live in your house until:

  • Every flood-contaminated room has been thoroughly cleaned, disinfected and surface-dried.
  • All contaminated dishes and utensils have been thoroughly washed and disinfected - either by using boiling water or by using a sterilizing solution.

Insurance

  • Before you start the cleanup, call your insurance company.
  • Be as detailed as possible when providing information. List all damaged or destroyed items.
  • If possible, assemble proofs of purchase, photos, receipts and warranties. Keep all receipts related to clean up and living expenses if you’ve been displaced.
  • If there is damage to the structure of your home, ask your insurance company about getting a professional inspection.

Dealing with recovery from flooding is a multi-step process. But you don't have to do it alone. 

If a disaster has been declared in your area due to flooding, there may be assistance available to you.

Get step-by-step information: Disaster recovery

If you need help or have questions, contact your regional Municipal and Community Affairs office.

For harvesters and trappers

If you are a harvester or trapper whose cabin or equipment were damaged due to flooding, there may be assistance available.

Learn more or apply: Hunters and Trappers Disaster Compensation Program

For community governments

This guide is intended to assist local authorities as they prepare for residents to re-enter their community after a disaster event.

Community Planning Guide for Re-entry after an Evacuation

PDF • 479.53KB • Issued April 30, 2021

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Updated: Apr 20, 2026