что делать, как не платить, как доказать свою невиновность Просмотров 231

Во многих случаях ответственность за затопление квартиры ложится на хозяина жилплощади сверху. При этом пострадавшие, как и представители управляющей компании (УК) не всегда заинтересованы в поиске истинного виновника. Потерпевший хочет получить компенсацию, а УК – переложить ответственность. Поэтому, владельцу помещения, где произошел прорыв, придется доказывать свою невиновность, чтобы избежать выплаты причиненного ущерба.

Что делать?

Мнение эксперта

Дмитрий Носиков

Юрист. Специализация семейное, жилищное право.

Согласно действующему законодательству ответственность за сохранность жилья, а также обязанность по возмещению вреда, причиненного имуществу соседей, несет владелец квартиры, если иное не предусмотрено законом или договором (ст. 210 ГК РФ). Лицо, причинившее материальный ущерб другому гражданину, должно его компенсировать в полном объеме (ст. 1064 ГК РФ).

Как показывает практика, аварии в многоэтажных домах не редкость, поэтому не следует сразу впадать в панику, даже если затопление пошло из вашей квартиры, и вы являетесь потенциальным виновником. Как себя вести в такой ситуации поможет следующая инструкция:

1. Отключите воду, чтобы остановить потоп и электричество для избегания короткого замыкания.
2. Позвоните в аварийно-диспетчерскую службу для вызова специалистов.
3. Установите причину затопления – важно узнать, по чьей вине произошла авария. Часто такие инциденты происходят не по вине жильцов, а вследствие халатности сотрудников УК или ЖЭК, которые не поддерживали отопительную или канализационную систему в надлежащем состоянии.
4. Составьте акт о затоплении – документ подготавливается в течение трех дней с момента обращения в аварийную службу (п. 152 ПП №354), с участием представителя УК, владельца затопленной квартиры и соседей – свидетелей произошедшего. Если сотрудники компании отказываются от написания акта, его нужно составить самостоятельно и заверить подписями других жильцов.
5. Проведите оценку причиненного вреда – на начальном этапе разбирательства можно самостоятельно осмотреть квартиру соседа снизу, если вы залили помещение, и определить, какое имущество действительно пострадало, с обязательной фиксацией повреждений посредством фото или видеосъемки.

В случае прорыва отопления, водоснабжения или канализации в квартире нельзя самоустраняться от выяснения причин аварии. Именно ваше участие в процессе позволит избежать выплаты компенсации. Любой жилец, который отказывается разбираться в случившемся, как правило, признается виновным и на него ложится вся ответственность. Поэтому готовьтесь присутствовать при всех процедурах, которые проводятся при возникновении аварии.

Как не платить?

Владелец квартиры не обязан платить за ремонт подтопленных помещений, если авария произошла на том участке, за который отвечает ЖЭК или управляющая компания, однако данный факт нужно доказать.

Способы избегания ответственности:

1. Доказать вину управляющей компании, если затопление произошло из-за старых труб, неисправных стояков или прорыва батареи, поскольку ее сотрудники обязаны следить за состоянием всех коммуникаций многоэтажного дома (ПП РФ №491 от 2006 г.).
2. Взыскать сумму ущерба с квартирантов, когда жилплощадь находится в найме.
3. Оформить страховку на жилье – такой вариант эффективен до возникновения инцидента с затоплением.
4. Взыскать компенсацию с ремонтной компании, когда причиной аварии стал некачественный ремонт отопительного оборудования или системы водоснабжения.

Если вина хозяина квартиры очевидна и полностью доказана, то целесообразнее всего договориться с соседями о досудебном порядке. Такой вариант позволит снизить сумму компенсации на ремонт и судебные издержки.

Доказать свою непричастность к заливу соседей собственник помещения может при грамотном сборе доказательственной базы.

Подготовка документов

Причины аварии и возможные виновники устанавливаются посредством экспертизы, заказать проведение которой можно в специализированных компаниях. Результат осмотра подготавливается в форме отчета эксперта. Документ имеет юридическую силу на каждом этапе разбирательства, в том числе и в суде.

Если виновной стороной признается компания, сотрудники которой проводили в помещении ремонтные работы (например, подключали трубы, сантехнику и т.д.), вследствие чего и произошел потоп, то к отчету эксперта необходимо приложить договор подряда. Документ доказывает факт проведения работ сотрудниками конкретной организации. Но в таких ситуациях возможны и нюансы. Нужно правильно разделять понятия некачественных работ и вреда, нанесенного в процессе их выполнения, а также учитывать обязанность по надлежащему содержанию помещения, которая полностью ложится на собственника (ст. 30 ЖК РФ). Т.е. все работы должны проводиться не только с разрешения хозяина жилплощади, но и под его контролем.

Одна из возможных причин аварии – некачественное оборудование, поэтому взыскать возмещение ущерба можно с производителя, доказав производственный брак крана, радиатора отопления и другого сантехнического или отопительного оборудования. Такой вариант эффективен, если у владельца квартиры будут документы, подтверждающие факт приобретения приборов и заключение эксперта о наличии брака.

Привлечь к ответственности квартирантов, вина которых доказана по результатам экспертизы можно в случаях, когда:

• Между собственником и жильцом заключен договор найма – он подтверждает проживание в помещении третьих лиц.
• Факт подтопления соседей отражен в акте залива квартиры.
• Собственник самостоятельно компенсировал убытки потерпевшей стороне – подать в суд на съемщика хозяин может в порядке регресса, т.е. после возмещения ущерба соседям (ст. 1081 ГК РФ).

При обращении в суд владельцу недвижимости понадобится гражданский паспорт, правоустанавливающие документы на собственность, выписка из домовой книги и из ЕГРН.

Проведение экспертизы

Результат экспертизы может подтвердить виновность конкретного лица в затоплении или опровергнуть обвинения. Поэтому хозяину помещения, где произошел прорыв, важно принять участие в проведении экспертных работ. Если стороны конфликта не закажут экспертизу на предварительном этапе разбирательства, то процедура назначается судом, а ее стоимость будет компенсировать ответчик.

Житель одной из квартир многоэтажного дома обратился в суд, чтобы взыскать с соседей расходы на ремонт после подтопления. Однако результат экспертизы показал, что авария произошла вследствие высокого давления в батареях и вина первоначального ответчика была опровергнута. Обязанность по возмещению ущерба суд возложил на управляющую компанию.

В процессе проведения экспертизы необходимо учесть следующие моменты:

1. Подробно ознакомьте специалиста, при каких обстоятельствах, и в какое время произошла авария. По возможности присутствуйте при осмотре подтопленного помещения снизу, чтобы осмотр был объективным – часто соседи самостоятельно вызывают аварийную службу, представителей УК и сотрудников экспертной компании.
2. Требуйте обязательного составления акта о затоплении – нередко работники ЖЭКа предлагают зафиксировать инцидент только в журнале. Не соглашайтесь на это, поскольку акт – один из главных аргументов при доказывании вашей невиновности. Также проверьте, чтобы документ был составлен в двух экземплярах.
3. Перед подписанием внимательно ознакомьтесь с содержанием, изучите отраженные причины аварии и обстоятельства, при которой она произошла. Если вы не согласны с ними по объективным причинам, не подписывайте документ.

Оценка ущерба

Сумма ущерба определяется после проведения экспертизы. Если размер компенсации не установлен, это не является основанием для отказа в привлечении виновных лиц к гражданско-правовой ответственности. Оценка, как и экспертиза, проводится сотрудниками специализированной компании, у которой есть лицензия на выполнение подобных мероприятий. Оплачивает ее  инициатор, но в случае судебного разбирательства стоимость оценки компенсирует ответчик, вина которого в аварии будет доказана.

Защита в суде

Если вы уверены в невиновности, но соседи требуют возмещения ущерба, нужно подготовиться к защите своих интересов. Большинство подобных споров как раз и решается в судебном порядке. Вы можете самостоятельно подать иск, если:

• потерпевший оказывает на вас моральное давление;
• сумма ущерба необоснованно завышена;
• потерпевший требует немедленно выплатить всю сумму в полном объеме – суд может предоставить рассрочку для возмещения ущерба;
• пострадавший требует компенсировать моральный вред.

На начальном этапе воспользуйтесь помощью квалифицированного юриста. Он поможет собрать необходимые бумаги, составить возражение на исковое заявление и проконсультирует, как правильно вести себя в судебном процессе.

Мнение эксперта

Семен Фролов

Юрист. Стаж 7 лет. Специализация: семейное, наследственное, жилищное право.

Задать вопрос эксперту

Внимательно изучите акт залива и оценки ущерба. В первом документе должны быть отражены причины аварии. Если она произошла не по вашей вине, озвучьте это в суде. Сведения в обоих документах должны совпадать. Некоторые жильцы могут выдавать старые повреждения за новые, чтобы взыскать большую сумму компенсации. При наличии расхождений требуйте проведение повторной экспертизы.

Если вы не можете лично присутствовать на процессе, вас должен замещать ваш представитель. Для его участия в суде понадобится нотариально заверенная доверенность.

Аргументы, которые может учесть суд в качестве невиновности собственника квартиры, где произошла авария:

• Факты, подтверждающие ответственность управляющей компании или третьих лиц.
• Расхождения в документах, описывающих обстоятельства инцидента, отсутствие подписи участников осмотра и других уполномоченных лиц.
• Экспертная оценка проведена лицом, которое не имеет право совершать подобные действия.
• Договор оценки заключался не с владельцем помещения.
• Истец не является правообладателем затопленного объекта.

В суде необходимо занимать активную позицию, иначе шансы на выигрыш дела снижаются. По результатам судебного разбирательства суд вынесет решение. Если содержание постановления вас не устраивает (например, суд признал вас виновным и постановил возместить ущерб соседям), вы имеете право его обжаловать в апелляционном порядке.

Судебная практика

Итоги судебных разбирательств, связанных с затоплением квартир, могут быть самыми неожиданными, поэтому защищать свои интересы можно и нужно. В большинстве случаев суд склоняется к принятию следующих решений:

• отказ в удовлетворении требований из-за недостаточной доказательственной базы или неверно составленных документов;
• полное удовлетворение требований истца;
• частичное удовлетворение требований истца.

Кроме этого, в судебной практике фиксировались случаи, когда иски отклонялись из-за необоснованно завышенных требований истца. Виновники инцидента доказывали, что потерпевшие рассчитывали на получение дополнительной выгоды из-за сложившейся ситуации.

Житель затопленной квартиры, понимая, что сумма причиненного ему ущерба не превышает 50 тыс. р., заказал оценку в компании, где работал его родственник. В заключении специалиста была отражена сумма в 100 тыс. р. В суде ответчик потребовал проведения повторной экспертизы. Сотрудники другой компании установили размер ущерба в 35 тыс. р. Иск был отклонен, а расходы на проведение повторной экспертизы понес истец.

Существуют и противоположные решения судебных органов.

Ответчик пытался доказать в суде, что требуемая с него сумма компенсации выше необходимой, поскольку жилплощадь истца находилась в изношенном состоянии. Но суд вынес решение о выплате ущерба в полном объеме. Основания для снижения суммы отсутствовали, поскольку для устранения повреждений потребовалась закупка новых стройматериалов.

Также в судебной практике немало случаев, когда лицу, в квартире которого произошел прорыв, удавалось опровергнуть свою причастность к аварии. В качестве доказательств действий и права на отказ в выплате компенсации служили акты о заливе, результаты первичных и повторных экспертиз.

Если ваши соседи обратятся в суд, то это далеко не 100% гарантия того, что их требования будут удовлетворены. Главное не паниковать, собрать все возможные доказательства невиновности и грамотно выстроить линию защиты. Так шансы на положительный исход судебного разбирательства будут высокими. Задайте вопросы нашим юристам, как вести себя в случае залива соседей снизу? Что нужно сделать в первую очередь, какие службы вызвать, и какие документы готовить? Какой порядок действий, если сотрудники ЖЭКа или УК пытаются переложить на вас ответственность. Ответы на указанные и другие вопросы вы получите совершенно бесплатно.

ЗАДАТЬ ВОПРОС ЮРИСТУ БЕСПЛАТНО

90000 what to do? What if you are flooded by neighbors? 90001 90002 Often there is a situation familiar to all pain. Made repairs in the apartment, wallpaper glued on, a new tile and soul-pleasing laminate. The apartment looks like new, and the mood of the owners is wonderful. But once coming home from work, we see a water-damaged ceiling tile, wet walls and floor. It turns out that everything is trite — the neighbors are pouring from above. What to do in this situation? All this is not only unpleasant, but can also significantly affect the purse, as the cost of repairs can be very large.So, if the neighbors flooded, what to do? Detailed instructions are fully reflected in this article. Below are tips that help solve the problem to both the affected party and the perpetrators. 90003 90004 Why does this happen? 90005 90002 If the neighbors flooded the apartment, what should I do? Often the first desire of most people is to «pour out» their malice on them. However, they may not be to blame for the «flood». Perhaps, the heating system, which has not been repaired for a long time, has broken through.Sometimes neglected plumbers are guilty, who have installed something wrong. 90003 90002 Quite often, responsibility lies with neighbors. Forget to close the tap in the kitchen or in the bathroom or break the plumbing while in a state of intoxication. Similar cases are also far from uncommon. 90003 90004 What if you were flooded, flooded neighbors, where to turn? 90005 90002 In any case, the perpetrator can only determinespecial commission. To find out the reason for the «flood» and identify the person responsible, it is necessary to contact the management company or independent experts.An act will be drawn up where all the damages and the amount of compensation for the damage caused are registered. 90003 90004 If the apartment is flooded after repairs 90005 90002 It is best to first turn to the culprits «Flood» and try to amicably settle the matter. Many prefer to negotiate peacefully. You neighbors pour from above? What to do when it starts to drip from the ceiling? First of all, it is necessary to call emergency service if it is found that water is leaking into the apartment.Specialists will witness leaks, temporarily block the water (until the causes of the accident are eliminated). 90003 90002 After that, you need to apply with a statement to the management company (DEZ, Housing office, TSZH, etc.). A technical commission will be sent from there, which will determine the cause and extent of the damage caused to the housing. 90003 90004 Commission work 90005 90002 If the neighbors flooded from above, what to do, whereTo address? A commission is being called to determine who is right, who is to blame.The damage caused is described in detail: starting with the damage caused by the damage to the technical condition of the apartment and ending with the electrical devices and decor elements that have been put out of order. 90023 90024 It is possible to draw up an act only within three days after the accident. At the end of this period, nothing can be documented. 90003 90002 Why only in the first three days is the act compiled? Because the leak marks are still fresh. The commission must fix in the act the place, time, cause and cause of the accident.In addition, it reflects the degree of damage to housing. 90003 90002 After this, the second act is drawn up. It just reflects the amount of damage (detailed inventory). This is done because not only the ceiling and walls can suffer, but also furniture, household appliances, antiques, clothes, shoes, etc. in the apartment. 90003 90004 How to draw up an act 90005 90002 What if you are flooded with neighbors? First of all, conduct an examination and draw up an act. This is the most important document, which should reflect the date and time of flooding and the detailed transfer of damage caused by water: 90003 90034 90035 Reasons (damage to pipes, negligence of neighbors, etc.). Examination is paid by the culprit of the incident. 90036 90035 A full list of damage to property: damaged furniture, shoes, clothes, carpets, lamps, household appliances, decoration and so on. 90036 90035 The perpetrator of the flood must be present atexamination and at the end to sign the agreement on the refund of the specified amount or refusal to do so. In the latter case, the amount of compensation will be determined by the courts. But in the act the answer of the guilty party should be fixed, if possible.90036 90035 The document may be invalidated if it does not contain the signatures of commission members affected by the flood and the culprit. 90036 90035 It is advisable to attach an estimate that can be compiled by an independent expert. 90036 90045 90004 Where to go with the acts 90005 90002 If neighbors have flooded, what to do next, having everythingthe necessary acts on the hands? In the presence of evidence-damaging documents, it is best to draw up a written claim, which, along with copies of the official papers, is sent to the culprit of the accident.This can be done both personally and by registered mail. The culprits of the accident are not always neighbors. Sometimes it is a management company that did not perform preventive maintenance at certain times. Especially it concerns heating and a waterpipe. 90003 90004 The neighbors poured in. What if they refuse to pay the damage? 90005 90002 In this case it is necessary to apply to the court. There you will need a receipt of the postal order or a claim with the refusal of the neighbors to compensate for the damage after flooding the dwelling.From both documents you need to make copies. 90003 90002 Before the court makes a decision to bring the apartment inorder is not worth it. Neighbors can begin to challenge the amount that is assigned in the form of compensation. In such cases, the court appoints an additional examination to clarify the amount of monetary compensation to the victim. All costs and legal costs will be paid by the defendant. 90003 90004 If there is no obvious leakage 90005 90002 It happens that the tenants from the bottom complain thatneighbors flooded the apartment.What should they do if there is no obvious leakage on the ceiling and it is dry? In this case, the cause of the «flood» may be the sewage system or the common house system, which is located between the floors of high-rise buildings. And the accident, most likely, arose at the junction. 90003 90002 If neighbors are constantly flooded, what should they do? Learn the apartment and determine the place of leakage. 90023 90024 If the ceilings are all dry, then the neighbors fordamage to property is not incurred and compensation must be paid by the management company.But she admits her guilt reluctantly, and a peaceful resolution of such a conflict is rare. In any case, it is necessary to order an independent examination. The service is paid, but then the guilty party will refund the money. 90003 90004 Constant floods from above 90005 90002 Again, flooded the neighbors … What to do, 90023 90024 if the situation is repeated repeatedly? In this case, you can immediately apply to the management company, and then — to the court. With all the acts on their hands, a complaint is made about the regular violation by neighbors of the rules for using a dwelling.If neighbors are constantly flooded, what should they do? Go to court. He will not only help to repair damages, but will also bring a warning to the culprits. If this happens again, then they will be fined a large sum. 90003 90004 If you flooded the neighbors from the bottom 90005 90002 First of all it is necessary to find andneutralize the leak, even if this requires completely shut off the water in the entrance. This is done by the emergency company, which you need to call immediately if you can not independently shut off the cranes in the apartment.90003 90002 It is better not to touch self-housecommunication, as they will have to pay compensation if they are damaged. Therefore it is more reasonable to wait for the emergency crew. To avoid a shortage, you must immediately turn off the electricity in the apartment. To do this, simply lower the switch. 90003 90004 How to fix the damage caused to neighbors 90005 90002 If you flooded the neighbors from below, what should you do in this case? 90023 90024 The apartment needs to be inspected personally and immediately, To assess the degree of damage inflicted.The ideal option — to shoot everything on the camera or take pictures on the camera. Often, the affected residents try to exaggerate the damage, so you will need proof when setting the compensation amount. 90003 90002 If they do not let in the flooded apartment, it canmean that you will try to demand more money than can require the removal of damage caused to property. Therefore, it is better to call the management company or independent experts independently and go to neighbors with them. If the apartment is not allowed again, then in court it is possible to easily challenge the amount that the victims will require in the form of compensation.Since there are witnesses that the neighbors did not want to admit the commission assessing the damage. 90003 90004 Expertise 90005 90002 If you flooded your neighbors from below, what should you do? First, draw up an act, which will indicate all the damages and the amount of damage. It is better for the guilty to be present at this personal 90003.90000 Floods — What to do? 90001 90002 Adobe Acrobat Version (PDF 986 KB) 90003 90004 Our partners 90005 90002 This publication was produced by Public Safety Canada in collaboration with: Canada Mortgage and Housing Corporation (CMHC), Canadian Red Cross, Natural Resources Canada, and St. John Ambulance. 90003 90002 An electronic version of this brochure is available at GetPrepared.ca. 90003 90002 Please note: Publications are not available in regular print format.90003 90002 © Her Majesty the Queen in Right of Canada 2010 90003 90002 Cat. No .: PS48-9 / 1-2011 90015 ISBN: 978-1-100-52506-8 90003 90017 Introduction 90018 90002 Floods are the most frequent natural hazards in Canada, and the most costly in terms of property damage. Floods can occur in any region, in the countryside or in cities. In the past, floods have affected hundreds of thousands of Canadians. They can occur at any time of the year and are most often caused by heavy rainfall, rapid melting of a thick snow pack, ice jams, or more rarely, the failure of a natural or human-made dam.90015 90003 90002 All Canadian rivers experience flooding at one time or another. The potential for flood damage is particularly high where there is development on low-lying, flood-prone lands. 90003 90002 Flash or sudden flooding, in which warning time is extremely limited, can result from other causes such as hurricanes, violent rainstorms, or the bursting of dams. 90003 90002 Though all levels of government are working to reduce the impact of floods, individuals also play an important role.Everyone has a responsibility to protect their homes and their families. 90003 90002 You can greatly lessen the impact of a flood by taking the time to prepare in advance. This involves three basic steps: 90003 90030 90031 Find out what to do before, during, and after a flood. 90032 90031 Make a family emergency 90034 plan 90035, so that everyone knows what to do, and where to go in case of an emergency. 90032 90031 Get an emergency 90034 kit 90035, so that you and your family can be self-sufficient for at least 72 hours during a flood.90032 90041 90002 Planning for a flood will also help prepare you for many other types of emergencies. After reading this guide, keep it in a handy spot, such as in your emergency kit. 90003 90017 Step 1: Know the risks and get prepared 90018 90002 90047 To get prepared for a flood, you should know the risks specific to your community and your region to help you better prepare. To find out what the hazards are in your region, visit the «Know the risks» section of the GetPrepared.ca website. 90048 90003 90017 Before a flood 90018 90002 90034 To reduce the likelihood of flood damage 90035 90003 90030 90031 Put weather protection sealant around basement windows and the base of ground-level doors. 90032 90031 Install the drainage for downspouts a sufficient distance from your residence to ensure that water moves away from the building. 90032 90031 Consider installing a sump pump and zero reverse flow valves in basement floor drains.90032 90031 Do not store your important documents in the basement. Keep them at a higher level, protected from flood damage. 90032 90041 90002 90034 If a flood is forecast 90035 90003 90030 90031 Turn off basement furnaces and the outside gas valve. 90032 90031 Take special precautions to safeguard electrical, natural gas or propane heating equipment. 90032 90031 If there is enough time, consult your electricity or fuel supplier for instructions on how to proceed.90032 90031 Shut off the electricity only if flooding has not yet begun and the area around the fuse box is completely dry. Stand to the side of the breaker panel and look away from the panel when switching the power off. Have a flashlight with you. 90078 90032 90041 90002 90034 If flooding is imminent 90035 90003 90030 90031 Move furniture, electrical appliances and other belongings to floors above ground level. 90032 90031 Remove toxic substances such as pesticides and insecticides from the flood area to prevent pollution.90032 90031 Remove toilet bowls and plug basement sewer drains and toilet connections with a wooden stopper. 90032 90031 Disconnect eavestroughs if they are connected to the house sewer. 90032 90031 In some cases, homes may be protected with sandbags or polyethylene barriers. Follow instructions from local emergency officials. 90032 90031 Do NOT attempt to shut off electricity if any water is present. Water and live electrical wires can be lethal. Leave your home immediately and do not return until authorities indicate it is safe to do so.90032 90041 90017 During A Flood 90018 90002 90047 Listen to the radio to find out what areas are affected, what roads are safe, where to go and what to do if the local emergency team asks you to leave your home. 90048 90003 90030 90031 Keep your emergency kit close at hand, in a portable container such as a duffel bag, backpack, or suitcase with wheels. 90032 90041 90002 90034 If you need to evacuate 90035 90003 90030 90031 Vacate your home when you are advised to do so by local emergency authorities.Ignoring such a warning could jeopardize the safety of your family or those who might eventually have to come to your rescue. 90032 90031 Take your emergency kit with you. 90032 90031 Follow the routes specified by officials. Do not take shortcuts. They could lead you to a blocked or dangerous area. 90032 90031 Make arrangements for pets. 90032 90031 Time permitting, leave a note informing others when you left and where you went. If you have a mailbox, leave the note there.90032 90041 90002 90034 Never cross a flooded area 90035 90003 90030 90031 If you are on foot, fast water could sweep you away. 90032 90031 If you are in a car, do not drive through flood waters or underpasses. The water may be deeper than it looks and your car could get stuck or swept away by fast water. 90032 90031 Avoid crossing bridges if the water is high and flowing quickly. 90032 90031 If you are caught in fast-rising waters and your car stalls, leave it and save yourself and your passengers.90034 90035 90032 90041 90017 After a Flood 90018 90002 90034 Re-entering your home 90035 90003 90030 90031 Do not return home until authorities have advised that it is safe to do so. 90032 90031 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. 90032 90031 Use extreme caution when returning to your home after a flood.90032 90031 Appliances that may have been flooded pose a risk of shock or fire when turned on. Do not use any appliances, heating, pressure, or sewage system until electrical components have been thoroughly cleaned, dried, and inspected by a qualified electrician. 90032 90031 The main electrical panel must be cleaned, dried, and tested by a qualified electrician to ensure that it is safe. 90032 90031 Depending on where you live, your municipal or the provincial inspection authority is responsible for the permitting process required before your electric utility can reconnect power to your home.90032 90041 90002 90034 Ensure building safety 90035 90003 90030 90031 Make sure the building is structurally safe. 90032 90031 Look for buckled walls or floors. 90032 90031 Watch for holes in the floor, broken glass and other potentially dangerous debris. 90032 90041 90002 90034 Water 90035 90003 90030 90031 Flood water can be heavily contaminated with sewage and other pollutants. It can cause sickness and infections.90032 90031 If your house has been flooded and you have a well, do not drink the water. Have it tested first. 90032 90031 Household items that have been flood-damaged will have to be discarded according to local regulations. 90032 90041 90002 90034 Documentation 90035 90003 90030 90031 Store all valuable papers that have been damaged in a freezer until needed. (After your cleanup, consult your lawyer to determine whether flood-damaged documents, or just the information in them, must be retained).90032 90031 Record details of flood damage by photograph or video, if possible. 90032 90041 90002 Register the amount of damage to your home with both your insurance agent and local municipality immediately. 90003 90017 Step 2: Make an Emergency Plan 90018 90002 90034 90047 Every Canadian household needs an emergency plan. It will help you and your family to know what to do in case of an emergency. Remember, your family may not be together when a flood or other emergency occurs.90048 90035 90003 90002 Start by discussing what could happen and what you should do at home, at school or at work if an emergency happens. To be prepared, make a list of what needs to be done ahead of time. Store important family documents, such as birth certificates, passports, wills, financial documents, insurance policies, etc. in waterproof container (s). Identify an appropriate out-of-town contact that can act as a central point of contact in an emergency. 90003 90002 Write down and exercise your plan with the entire family at least once a year.Make sure everybody has a copy and keeps it close at hand. 90003 90002 For more information on making an emergency plan, call 1 800 O-Canada or visit GetPrepared.ca to download or complete an emergency plan online. 90003 90017 Step 3: Get an Emergency Kit 90018 90002 90034 90047 In an emergency you will need some basic supplies. You may need to get by without power or tap water. Be prepared to be self-sufficient for at least 72 hours. 90048 90035 90003 90002 You may have some of the items already, such as a flashlight, battery-operated radio, food and water.The key is to make sure they are organized and easy to find. Would you be able to find your flashlight in the dark? 90003 90002 Make sure your kit is easy to carry. Keep it in a backpack, duffel bag or suitcase with wheels, in an easy-to-reach, accessible place, such as your front hall closet. Make sure everyone in the household knows where the emergency kit is. 90003 90002 90034 Basic emergency kit 90035 90003 90030 90031 Water — at least two litres of water per person per day.Include small bottles that can be carried easily in case of an evacuation order. 90032 90031 Food that will not spoil, such as canned food, energy bars and dried foods (remember to replace the food and water once a year). 90032 90031 Manual can opener. 90032 90031 Crank or battery-powered flashlight (and extra batteries). 90032 90031 Crank or battery-powered radio (and extra batteries). 90032 90031 First aid kit. 90032 90031 Special items such as prescription medications, infant formula and equipment for people with disabilities.90032 90031 Extra keys to your car and house. 90032 90031 Cash in smaller bills, such as $ 10 bills and change for payphones. 90032 90031 A copy of your emergency plan and contact information 90032 90041 90002 You can purchase a pre-packaged emergency kit from the Canadian Red Cross at www.redcross.ca. Visit GetPrepared.ca or call 1 800 O-Canada for a list of additional emergency kit items, including a car emergency kit. 90003 90017 Resources 90018 90017 National Resources 90018 90002 Public Safety Canada — Other publications: 90003 90030 90031 Earthquakes — What to do? 90032 90031 Emergency Preparedness for Farm Animals 90032 90031 Power Outages — What to do? 90032 90031 Severe Storms — What to do? 90032 90031 Your Emergency Preparedness Guide 90032 90031 Emergency Preparedness for People with Disabilities / Special Needs 90032 90041 90002 For more emergency preparedness information, visit GetPrepared.ca or follow @Get_Prepared on Twitter. 90003 90017 Provincial and Territorial Resources 90018 90002 For regional or local information on emergency preparedness, contact your emergency management organization as follows: 90003 90002 90034 Alberta 90035 90015 Alberta Emergency Management Agency 90015 Telephone: (780) 422-9000 / Toll-free: 310-0000 90015 www.aema.alberta.ca 90003 90002 90034 British Columbia 90035 90015 Emergency Management BC 90015 Telephone: (250) 952-4913 / Emergency: 1-800-663-3456 90015 http: // www2.gov.bc.ca/gov/content/safety/emergency-preparedness-response-recovery/preparedbc 90003 90002 90034 Manitoba 90035 90015 Manitoba Emergency Measures Organization 90015 Telephone: (204) 945-4772 / Toll-free: 1-888-267-8298 90015 www.manitobaemo.ca 90003 90002 90034 New Brunswick 90035 90015 New Brunswick Emergency Measures Organization 90015 Telephone: (506) 453-2133 / Toll-free 24 Hour line: 1-800-561-4034 90015 https: // www2.gnb.ca/content/gnb/en/departments/emo.html 90003 90002 90034 Newfoundland 90035 90034 and Labrador 90035 90015 Newfoundland and Labrador Fire and Emergency Services 90015 Telephone: (709) 729-3703 90015 https://www.gov.nl.ca/fes/ 90003 90002 90034 Northwest Territories 90035 90015 Northwest Territories Emergency Management Organization 90015 Telephone: (867) 873-7538 / 24 Hour line: (867) 920-2303 90015 http: // www.maca.gov.nt.ca/en/services/emergency-preparedness 90003 90002 90034 Nova Scotia 90035 90015 Nova Scotia Emergency Management Office 90015 Telephone Toll-free 24 Hour line: 1-866-424-5620 90015 https://beta.novascotia.ca/government/emergency-management-office 90003 90002 90034 Nunavut 90035 90015 Nunavut Emergency Management 90015 Telephone: (867) 975-5403 / Toll-free 24 Hour line: 1-800-693-1666 90015 https: // www.gov.nu.ca/community-and-government-services/information/nunavut-emergency-management-0 90003 90002 90034 Ontario 90035 90015 Office of the Fire Marshal and Emergency Management 90015 Telephone: (647) 329-1100 / Toll-free 24 Hour line: 1-800-565-1842 90015 www.ontario.ca/beprepared 90003 90002 90034 Prince Edward Island 90035 90015 Prince Edward Island Emergency Measures Organization 90015 Telephone: (902) 894-0385 / After hours: (902) 892-9365 90015 www.peipublicsafety.ca 90003 90002 90034 Quebec 90035 90015 Quebec — Ministère de la sécurité publique 90015 Telephone (toll-free): 1-866-644-6826 90015 General information (Services Québec): 1-877-644-4545 90015 http://www.securitepublique.gouv.qc.ca/en.html 90003 90002 90034 Saskatchewan 90035 90015 Saskatchewan Emergency Management Organization 90015 Telephone: (306) 787-9563 90015 https: // www.saskatchewan.ca/residents/environment-public-health-and-safety/disaster-prevention 90003 90002 90034 Yukon 90035 90015 Yukon Emergency Measures Organization 90015 Telephone: (867) 667-5220 90015 Toll free (within the Yukon): 1-800-661-0408 90015 https://yukon.ca/en/emergencies-and-safety 90003 90372 90373 Date modified: 90374 90375 90376 2017-05-23 90377 90378 90379 .90000 What to do if a flood happens 90001 90002 To report flooding, telephone 0300 2000 100. This number is available 24 hours a day, seven days a week. You might be eligible for an emergency payment from the local council if heavy rainfall caused flooding in your home. 90003 90004 If there is a heavy rain warning 90005 90002 If heavy rain is forecast in your area, you can expect flooding of low lying land and roads. You should check local news, weather forecasts and be aware of water levels in water courses near you.90003 90002 Be prepared to follow any plans you have made to deal with flooding in your area such as: 90003 90010 90011 moving cars, pets, food, valuables and important documents to safety 90012 90011 putting flood protection equipment in place 90012 90011 turning off gas, electricity and water supplies if it’s safe to do so 90012 90011 evacuating your home 90012 90019 90002 To stop water entering your home: 90003 90010 90011 use sandbags and floodboards to prevent water entering through doors and windows 90012 90011 seal airbricks with plastic covers, cloths or towels 90012 90011 put plugs in sinks and baths and weighing them down with a sandbag, pillowcase or a plastic bag filled with garden soil, or a heavy object 90012 90011 block toilets with towels or bed sheets and weigh down lids 90012 90019 90002 If you do not have valves fitted which allow flow of water in one direction (non-return valves) you should: 90003 90010 90011 plug water inlet pipes with towels or cloths 90012 90011 turn off any equipment that uses water (like washing machines and dishwashers) 90012 90011 collect the things you need for evacuation 90012 90011 stay in a high place with a means of escape 90012 90011 avoid electricity sources 90012 90011 avoid walking or driving through flood water 90012 90011 call 999 immediately if you are in danger 90048 90012 90011 Household flood plan 90012 90019 90004 Evacuation 90005 90002 If the emergency services tell you to evacuate your home, you should leave.Refusing to leave on their advice puts you, your family and people trying to help you at risk. 90003 90002 When flooding becomes less, you should: 90003 90010 90011 listen to weather reports and only return to evacuated buildings if you are told it’s safe 90012 90011 beware of sharp objects and pollution in flood water 90012 90011 contact your insurance company immediately and ask their advice before starting to clean up if your property or belongings are damaged 90012 90019 90002 The insurance company might give advice about replacing or clearing away damaged items.90003 90004 Health precautions around flooding 90005 90002 Flooding can contain pollutants which can affect your health and well being. There are also risks such as missing manhole covers on roads and pavements and people falling into fast flowing water. Do not eat any food that was in flood water. 90003 90002 If there was a flood in your home, you should: 90003 90010 90011 wash your hands after contact with flood water, sewage or anything these have contaminated 90012 90011 cover cuts or open sores 90012 90011 wash children’s hands regularly 90012 90011 keep children and pets out of contaminated areas 90012 90011 use rubber gloves when cleaning up 90012 90011 use disinfectant to clean surfaces and tables where you want to put food 90012 90011 contact your GP is you or a relative has a stomach upset after flooding 90012 90011 decontaminate footwear by washing and treating with a mild disinfectant 90012 90011 clean toys with disinfectant 90012 90019 90004 Contamination caused by sewage in flood water 90005 90002 Where sewage is clearly visible in flood waters, or in material deposited by flood waters, decontamination should involve: 90003 90010 90011 removing excess liquid (pumping / sweeping) 90012 90011 a thorough clean up to remove any debris or faecal contamination 90012 90011 leaving the contaminated areas to dry 90012 90011 applying a mild disinfectant 90012 90019 90002 Disinfectants should remove all traces of bacteria within 24 to 48 hours.90003 90004 Electricity 90005 90002 If any electrical wiring has come into contact with flood water, a qualified electrician will need to check the safety of the system, and the safety of appliances. 90003 90002 Householders can contact Northern Ireland Electricity (NIE) 24 hours a day for advice: 90003 90004 Insurance 90005 90002 Contact your home insurance company as soon as possible. They may offer advice about replacement or cleansing damaged items. 90003 90004 External flooding 90005 90002 If there was flooding to gardens, paved areas and other external areas: 90003 90010 90011 you can clean and disinfect patios and driveways but keep off these areas for three hours after disinfection 90012 90011 it is not usual to disinfect cultivated areas as this can kill plants, if you do, use a very mild disinfectant 90012 90011 do not hose the garden as this will saturate the ground and prolong the life of the bacteria 90012 90011 do not dig or rake the affected area as this will spread contamination further into the soil where lack of light will prolong the life of bacteria 90012 90011 it is best to let nature take its course as ultra violet radiation in sunlight is very effective in killing bacteria 90012 90019 90004 Compensation claims 90005 90002 For compensation claims about water or sewerage, ask NI Water for a claim form: 90003 90004 Emergency financial payments 90005 90002 If your home is flooded due to heavy rainfall, you can contact the local council and ask about their emergency payments scheme.90003 90002 A householder could receive £ 1, 000. The payment is to make a home fit to live in as quickly as possible. It is not compensation. 90003 90147 Inspecting your property 90148 90002 The council will inspect your property. If your claim is eligible, you will receive your payment within days. 90003 90004 Rating exclusions on flooded homes 90005 90002 If your home was affected by flooding, you might be eligible for exclusion from rates. 90003 90004 Help from the council after flooding 90005 90002 If your home was flooded, the council can give you practical help and guidance, including: 90003 90010 90011 collection, retention and disposal of damaged household contents 90012 90011 help with arrangements to clean up your home and garden 90012 90019 90004 More useful links 90005 .90000 What Happens If My Neighbor’s Tree Falls in My Yard? 90001 90002 Trees can be tricky, but for the most part homeowners are responsible for what falls into their own yard. So if a storm causes your neighbor’s tree to fall in your yard, your homeowners insurance could help cover the cost of removing the tree and remedying the damage it caused on your property, after your deductible. 90003 90002 The same is true in reverse: If a tree on your property falls in your neighbor’s yard, your neighbor should contact his or her insurance company to determine what type of coverage is available for damage or cleanup in their yard.90003 90002 In most cases, neighbors are able to work things out without too much trouble. Depending on the extent of the damage, you may need to file a homeowners insurance claim. Your homeowners insurance may or may not cover the cost of tree cleanup, depending on your policy and the company you work with. 90003 90002 Good news: Homeowners insurance from ERIE typically pays for the cost (subject to sublimits) of removal of fallen trees if it’s due to a covered peril, such as a storm. 90003 90002 If there’s ever an issue between neighbors, you can rely on your claims adjuster to help straighten everything out.90003 90012 THE CLAIMS PROCESS 90013 90002 If a tree falls on your house, the first thing to do, if it’s safe, is to try to prevent further damage to your home and property. Make sure to take some photos to document what happened. Then call your insurance agent, who can explain your options and help you understand if and how to file a claim. When you file a claim, a claims adjuster will come by to evaluate the damage and explain how your homeowners coverage comes into play. It’s recommended that you call your claims adjuster before you contract to have the tree removed.90003 90002 Sometimes trees fall on cars. If it’s not safe or possible to remove the tree from the car yourself, you should call a professional to remove it. (Again, talk to your insurance agent and a claims adjuster first and take a few photos of the fallen tree on your car.) Depending on the damage and terms of your insurance coverage, the optional comprehensive coverage you may have under your auto policy could provide coverage for the loss. 90003 90012 PREVENTING TREE DAMAGE 90013 90002 Preventive measures matter when it comes to trees.Start by looking for signs of distress such as dead limbs, cracks in the trunk or major limbs, leaning to one side and branches that are close to a house or power line. Mushroom growth on the roots or bark can also signal trouble. 90003 90002 Homeowners should be concerned about the health of their trees. It’s possible for you to be held responsible for resulting damage to your neighbor’s house or property, if your tree falls due (in whole or part) to your own neglect. One of the best things to do is to regularly have large trees trimmed.(The Tree Care Industry Association lists accredited tree care professionals.) 90003 90002 Learn more about homeowners insurance from ERIE or find an Erie Insurance agent in your community. 90003 90002 90027 This story was originally published in 2014. It was updated in 2019 with additional information. 90028 90003 .