Every year, floods cause millions of dollars in damages in Quebec—and the new flood zone maps released by the government will soon affect new residential areas.
In this context, citizens are increasingly assuming more risk, including the loss of property value. For homeowners and tenants, this new reality raises many questions: Is my house at risk? What if I want to sell? Can I renovate? How do I protect my family and belongings?
Our engineering and geomatics experts at Can-Explore are dedicated to assisting individuals and real estate lawyers specializing in risk management and insurance. We aim to help them understand the risks affecting properties in flood zones and take the right actions to enhance their resilience against flooding.
Why is it important now?
The Quebec government is about to release a new generation of flood zone maps. These maps will categorize areas based on their risk level and could impose restrictions on the use of properties located within them.
In practical terms, this means that some residences previously considered safe might find themselves in a regulated zone. This can affect the ability to undertake renovations, obtain a construction permit, or even sell a house.
Next-generation Flood Maps
Table from the document “Next-generation Mapping: Flood-prone Areas and River Mobility,” Ministry of the Environment, Climate Change, Wildlife and Parks, June 2024, page 2.
How we can assist you
Can-Explore brings together a unique set of skills and technologies to provide a comprehensive overview of the issues:
- Identify the causes of flooding or moisture issues around your home (sewer backup, runoff, poorly drained land, network overflow, etc.);
- Assess the risks related to new flood zones for your property;
- Provide concrete recommendations to protect your residence against future risks;
- Assist you with the process of obtaining construction permits from your municipality;
- Provide clear technical reports, useful for insurance or real estate transactions.
Our approach, simply
Our services are designed to help you make informed decisions—without unnecessary jargon:
- Personalized Diagnosis: We visit your property, ask the right questions, and collect on-site data.
- Comprehensive Analysis: We cross-reference government maps, flood history, geospatial data, land surveys, and our experts’ observations.
- Practical Recommendations: We provide you with an understandable report, featuring concrete actions to reduce your vulnerability.
Support for legal proceedings or with your insurer
In the event of a dispute or claim, our team can produce technical reports recognized by the courts and even testify if necessary. We analyze the facts, untangle responsibilities, and identify the causes of damage. Our goal: to provide solid facts to individuals and the lawyers assisting them in defending their rights.
Are you a lawyer or legal representative?
Can-Explore also acts as an expert partner in litigation cases related to flooding or real estate liability. We collaborate with law firms to document the origin of damages, assess contributing factors (municipal network condition, land development, construction defects, etc.), and provide technical opinions supported by precise geospatial data. Our team can also offer independent expert testimony.
Check out our legal expertise page in urban hydraulics for more details.
A personalized strategic service for all concerned parties
Every territory, building, and situation is unique. Our multidisciplinary team—engineers, land surveyors, civil engineering technicians—works together to offer tailored solutions to all parties affected by flooding. We provide thorough, transparent support based on concrete data, perfectly aligned with regulatory requirements and the specific challenges of each environment.
Rain Floods
Property Owners and Real Estate Developers:
Prevention, diagnosis, and tailored solutions for asset protection.
Lawyers and Legal Experts:
Technical support for legal proceedings.
Insurers:
Analysis of liability chain, risk modeling.
River Floods
Municipalities & RCMs:
Support in understanding the territory, risk assessment, and investment prioritization.
Services useful at various stages of your life
Prevention
Protect your home before an event occurs.
Before Renovation
Check if your project is allowed and if any precautions need to be taken.
Before Purchase or Sale
Understand the risks to avoid unpleasant surprises.
In Case of Disaster or Flooding
Determine the origin of the problem and your options for recourse.
Standards, Reports, and Additional Documentation
Additional Documentation - Useful Links and Downloads
Request a Quote: Flood Risk Management
Have a question? A specific project?
Feel free to contact us. Our solutions are tailored to your needs.