Name: Pro Max Restoration
Address: 1875 Leslie St, Unit 24, North York, ON, M3B 2M5, CA
Telephone: 416-988-3539
Price range: $$
Rating: 5.0

Question 1

How quickly can you respond to a water damage emergency in Toronto?

Accepted Answer

Our emergency response team is on-site within 45 minutes of your call, 24 hours a day, 7 days a week, across the entire Greater Toronto Area. We guarantee a callback within 15 minutes.

Question 2

Are your technicians certified for water damage restoration?

Accepted Answer

Yes—all our technicians hold IICRC certifications in water damage restoration (S-500) and mold remediation (S-520), the industry gold standard. We are fully licensed, insured, and bonded.

Question 3

Do you work with insurance companies?

Accepted Answer

Absolutely. We provide comprehensive insurance claims assistance including photographic documentation, detailed reports, direct billing, and coordination with all major Canadian insurance providers.

Question 4

What areas do you serve?

Accepted Answer

We serve Toronto and over 55 communities across the Greater Toronto Area, including North York, Scarborough, Mississauga, Brampton, Markham, Vaughan, Oakville, Burlington, Richmond Hill, and many more.

Question 5

Do you offer renovation services after restoration?

Accepted Answer

Yes—we are a full-service restoration AND renovation company. This means seamless transition from emergency restoration to complete renovation, including kitchens, bathrooms, basements, and whole-home remodeling.

Question 6

Do you charge extra for emergency calls on weekends or holidays?

Accepted Answer

No—our emergency pricing is the same 24/7/365. No hidden fees, no surcharges for after-hours, weekend, or holiday emergency calls.

Question 7

What is IICRC certification and why does it matter?

Accepted Answer

The Institute of Inspection, Cleaning and Restoration Certification (IICRC) sets the standard for the restoration industry. IICRC-certified companies follow proven scientific processes, use proper equipment, and adhere to health and safety protocols—ensuring quality results.

Question 8

How quickly can you respond to water damage in Toronto?

Accepted Answer

Our emergency crews are staged across three GTA locations (North York, Lawrence Ave, and downtown Toronto) for a 45-minute average response time. We operate 24/7/365 — including holidays. During peak events (major storms, cold snaps), we pre-stage additional crews to maintain our response commitment.

Question 9

What are the most common causes of water damage in Toronto homes?

Accepted Answer

Based on our 600+ GTA project history: (1) Burst or frozen pipes — 32% of our calls, concentrated December through March; (2) Appliance failures (hot water tanks, dishwashers, washing machines) — 24%; (3) Sewer backups during heavy rainfall — 18%; (4) Roof leaks and ice dams — 14%; (5) Foundation cracks and groundwater seepage — 12%. Each requires a different restoration approach and has different insurance implications.

Question 10

How much does water damage restoration cost in Toronto?

Accepted Answer

Costs depend on the water category (clean, grey, or black), area affected, and materials involved. A typical Toronto bathroom supply-line burst affecting one floor averages $3,000–$8,000. A full basement flood with sewer involvement can range from $10,000–$30,000+. We provide free, detailed written estimates, and most homeowner insurance policies cover sudden and accidental water damage — we bill your insurer directly.

Question 11

Do you work directly with insurance companies?

Accepted Answer

Yes — we maintain direct billing relationships with all major Canadian insurers including Intact, Aviva, Desjardins, TD Insurance, Wawanesa, Co-operators, Economical, and more. We handle claim documentation, adjuster communication, and supplemental requests. Most clients pay only their deductible.

Question 12

How long does the water damage restoration process take?

Accepted Answer

Emergency extraction is completed on the first visit (same day). Structural drying typically requires 3–5 days for residential properties, monitored daily. Repairs and rebuild depend on scope — minor drywall patches take 1–2 days, while full basement restorations may take 2–4 weeks. We provide a detailed timeline at assessment.

Question 13

Can water damage cause mold in my Toronto home?

Accepted Answer

Yes — and faster than most people realize. Mold spores begin colonizing damp building materials within 24–48 hours at Toronto's typical indoor humidity levels. This is why rapid extraction and professional drying are critical. Our antimicrobial treatments during restoration inhibit mold growth, and we can perform post-restoration air quality testing to verify your home is safe.

Question 14

What should I do immediately after discovering water damage?

Accepted Answer

Step 1: Ensure safety — don't enter standing water near electrical outlets. Step 2: Shut off the water source if possible (know where your main shutoff valve is). Step 3: Call us at 416-988-3539. Step 4: Document damage with photos before moving anything. Step 5: Move valuables above the water line if safe to do so. Do NOT use a household vacuum on water — it creates an electrocution risk.

Question 15

Do you restore hardwood floors after water damage?

Accepted Answer

Often, yes. We use specialized hardwood floor drying mat systems that apply vacuum pressure beneath the flooring to extract moisture without removing the boards. Success depends on how quickly drying begins — within 24 hours, we save the original floor approximately 80% of the time. After 72 hours, replacement is usually necessary. We'll assess your specific situation honestly.

Question 16

Is it safe to enter a flooded basement?

Accepted Answer

Never enter a flooded basement if water is touching or near electrical outlets, the panel box, or any appliances — electrocution risk is real and has caused fatalities in the GTA. If you smell natural gas, leave the house immediately and call Enbridge (1-866-763-5427). If the water appears dark or has a sewage odor, it is likely Category 3 (black water) containing dangerous pathogens. The safest course: shut off the main breaker from outside the flooded area if possible, then call Pro Max Restoration at 416-988-3539 for emergency assessment.

Question 17

How quickly do you respond to basement flood emergencies in Toronto?

Accepted Answer

Our average response time is 45 minutes across Toronto, Scarborough, North York, Etobicoke, East York, and Mississauga. We maintain 24/7/365 dispatch with crews positioned strategically across the GTA. During major storm events (like the July 2013 or August 2018 floods), we scale to multiple simultaneous teams and prioritize by severity — sewer backups and electrical hazards are triaged first.

Question 18

How much does flooded basement cleanup cost in Toronto?

Accepted Answer

Cost depends on three main factors: water category (clean, grey, or black), flood depth and square footage, and the extent of material removal required. Category 1 floods in an unfinished basement may cost $2,500–$5,000 for extraction and drying. A Category 3 sewer backup in a finished basement requiring full drywall removal, decontamination, and rebuild typically runs $15,000–$35,000+. We provide detailed, line-item estimates and work directly with your insurer.

Question 19

Will my insurance cover basement flooding?

Accepted Answer

Coverage depends on the cause. Sudden pipe bursts and appliance failures are generally covered under standard homeowner's policies. Sewer backup requires a specific endorsement (costs $30–$80/year) with sublimits typically between $10,000–$50,000. Overland flooding endorsements have been available from most Canadian carriers since 2015. Gradual seepage and maintenance-related flooding are almost always excluded. Our team has processed 1,200+ claims and will identify the correct coverage category to maximize your reimbursement.

Question 20

How long does it take to fully dry a flooded basement?

Accepted Answer

Structural drying typically takes 3–5 days depending on the flood category, water depth, and materials affected. Concrete takes the longest to dry due to its density. We take daily moisture readings and only remove equipment when all materials reach target moisture content (≤15% for wood framing, ≤1% relative for concrete). Rushing this process or relying on household fans almost always results in hidden moisture that leads to mold growth within 2–4 weeks.

Question 21

What's the difference between a sewer backup and overland flooding?

Accepted Answer

Sewer backup occurs when the municipal sewer system surcharges and water/sewage enters through your basement floor drain or plumbing fixtures — this is almost always Category 3 (black water). Overland flooding occurs when surface water from rain or snowmelt enters through windows, doors, or cracks above the foundation. These require different insurance endorsements and different remediation approaches. Our technicians determine the source on arrival, which is critical for proper insurance claim filing.

Question 22

Can a flooded basement cause mold?

Accepted Answer

Absolutely — and faster than most homeowners realize. Mold spores begin colonizing damp drywall and wood within 24–48 hours at Toronto's typical indoor humidity levels. A basement that "looks dry" on the surface can harbor extensive mold growth behind walls, under floating floors, and inside wall cavities where trapped moisture creates ideal conditions. This is why professional moisture detection with infrared cameras and pin meters is essential — visible dryness does not mean actual dryness.

Question 23

How can I prevent my basement from flooding again?

Accepted Answer

The four most effective preventive measures for Toronto homes are: (1) Install a backwater valve with annual inspection ($1,500–$3,000 installed, with City of Toronto rebates up to $3,400 available), (2) Upgrade to a sump pump system with battery backup ($800–$2,500), (3) Repair foundation cracks with polyurethane injection ($300–$600 per crack), and (4) Ensure proper exterior grading slopes away from the foundation at minimum 2% grade for the first 6 feet. We offer all of these as preventive services after every flood remediation.

Question 24

What causes basements to leak in Toronto?

Accepted Answer

Common causes include foundation cracks from settling, hydrostatic pressure from the high water table, failed weeping tiles, deteriorated waterproofing membranes, improper grading, window well drainage issues, and Toronto's freeze-thaw cycles that expand existing cracks.

Question 25

How much does basement waterproofing cost in Toronto?

Accepted Answer

Interior crack injection starts around $500–$1,500 per crack. Interior waterproofing systems range from $5,000–$15,000. Exterior waterproofing with excavation can cost $10,000–$30,000+ depending on accessibility and foundation depth. We provide free assessments with detailed quotes.

Question 26

Is interior or exterior waterproofing better?

Accepted Answer

Both have advantages. Interior systems are less invasive and more affordable, ideal for managing water that's already entered. Exterior waterproofing stops water at the source and is the most thorough solution. We often recommend a combined approach for maximum protection.

Question 27

Do you offer financing for basement waterproofing?

Accepted Answer

Yes, we offer flexible financing options to make basement waterproofing accessible. We also assist with insurance claims where applicable — many policies cover sudden water damage that leads to basement leaks.

Question 28

How long does basement waterproofing take?

Accepted Answer

Interior crack injection can be completed in a few hours. Full interior waterproofing systems take 2–4 days. Exterior waterproofing with excavation typically requires 3–7 days depending on the scope and weather conditions.

Question 29

Will waterproofing increase my home value?

Accepted Answer

Absolutely. A dry, waterproofed basement is a major selling point in Toronto's real estate market. It prevents structural damage, eliminates mold risks, and can add usable living space — all factors that increase property value.

Question 30

What should I do when a pipe bursts?

Accepted Answer

Immediately shut off your main water supply valve (usually in the basement near the water meter). Turn off electricity to affected areas if safe to do so. Call Pro Max Restoration at 416-988-3539 for immediate emergency response — we'll guide you through next steps while our crew is dispatched.

Question 31

How quickly can you respond to a burst pipe?

Accepted Answer

Our emergency crews are on-site within 45 minutes anywhere in the Greater Toronto Area, 24 hours a day, 7 days a week, including holidays. We maintain multiple dispatch zones across the GTA for rapid response.

Question 32

Does insurance cover burst pipe damage?

Accepted Answer

Most homeowner insurance policies cover sudden and accidental water damage from burst pipes, including repair costs and water damage restoration. We provide complete documentation and work directly with your insurance company to streamline the claims process.

Question 33

How do I prevent pipes from bursting in winter?

Accepted Answer

Key prevention steps include insulating exposed pipes (especially in unheated areas), maintaining indoor temperature above 15°C, letting faucets drip during extreme cold, disconnecting outdoor hoses before winter, and sealing air leaks near pipes. We offer pipe insulation and winterization services.

Question 34

How much does burst pipe repair cost in Toronto?

Accepted Answer

Emergency pipe repair typically ranges from $500–$2,500 depending on pipe location, material, and accessibility. Water damage restoration costs vary based on the extent of damage. We provide transparent estimates and work with your insurance to minimize out-of-pocket costs.

Question 35

Can a burst pipe cause mold?

Accepted Answer

Yes — mold can begin growing within 24–48 hours of water exposure. That's why rapid response is critical. Our restoration process includes antimicrobial treatment and thorough drying to prevent mold colonization. If mold is already present, we provide certified mold remediation.

Question 36

Is sewer backup dangerous?

Accepted Answer

Yes — sewer water is classified as Category 3 (black water) and contains harmful bacteria, viruses, parasites, and other pathogens. It poses serious health risks including gastroenteritis, hepatitis, and respiratory infections. Professional biohazard remediation is essential — never attempt to clean sewage yourself.

Question 37

Does insurance cover sewer backup?

Accepted Answer

Sewer backup coverage is typically an add-on to standard homeowner insurance in Ontario. If you have sewer backup endorsement on your policy, it usually covers cleanup, restoration, and personal property damage. We work directly with insurers and provide complete documentation.

Question 38

What causes sewer backups in Toronto?

Accepted Answer

Common causes include tree root intrusion into sewer lines, aging municipal infrastructure, combined sewer overflow during heavy rainfall, grease and debris blockages, collapsed or damaged pipes, and improper connections. Toronto's older neighbourhoods with combined sewers are especially vulnerable.

Question 39

How do I prevent sewer backups?

Accepted Answer

Install a backwater valve (City of Toronto offers subsidies up to $3,400), maintain your sewer lateral with regular cleaning, avoid flushing grease or non-flushable items, install a sump pump with battery backup, and consider disconnecting downspouts from the sewer system.

Question 40

How long does sewer backup cleanup take?

Accepted Answer

Emergency extraction and sanitization typically take 1–2 days. Full structural drying requires 3–5 days with industrial equipment. Complete restoration including rebuilding affected areas can take 1–3 weeks depending on the severity and scope of contamination.

Question 41

What is a backwater valve and do I need one?

Accepted Answer

A backwater valve is a one-way valve installed on your sewer lateral that prevents sewage from flowing back into your home during municipal overflows or blockages. Toronto strongly recommends them — and offers a Basement Flooding Protection Subsidy of up to $3,400 for installation. We handle the full installation process.

Question 42

How do I know if I have mold in my Toronto home?

Accepted Answer

Common signs include musty or earthy odours (especially in basements and bathrooms), visible discoloration on walls/ceilings/grout, persistent allergic symptoms that worsen at home, peeling paint or wallpaper, and any history of water damage or flooding. Our free inspection uses thermal imaging to detect hidden moisture and mold behind walls that’s invisible to the naked eye.

Question 43

Is black mold really dangerous?

Accepted Answer

Yes. Stachybotrys chartarum (black mold) produces mycotoxins that can cause chronic respiratory disease, neurological symptoms, immune suppression, and severe allergic reactions. Health Canada identifies it as a serious indoor air quality hazard. Black mold requires IICRC S-520 Level 3 remediation with full containment, PPE, and third-party clearance testing—never attempt DIY removal.

Question 44

How long does professional mold remediation take?

Accepted Answer

Timeline depends on contamination scope: minor (under 10 sq ft) takes 1 day, moderate (10–50 sq ft) takes 1–2 days, significant (50–200 sq ft) takes 2–4 days, and extensive/black mold can take 4–7+ days. We provide a detailed timeline during your free initial assessment so you can plan accordingly.

Question 45

Will mold come back after remediation?

Accepted Answer

Not if the moisture source is properly addressed. Our remediation protocol includes identifying and correcting the original cause—whether it’s a plumbing leak, poor ventilation, foundation crack, or inadequate waterproofing. We also provide a written prevention plan and warranty. Recurrence only happens when the moisture source isn’t fixed.

Question 46

Does homeowner insurance cover mold removal in Ontario?

Accepted Answer

Most Ontario homeowner policies cover mold remediation when caused by a “sudden and accidental” covered peril (burst pipe, appliance failure, storm damage). Gradual moisture damage and maintenance-related mold are typically excluded. We provide direct insurance billing with full Xactimate estimates, photo documentation, and moisture reports to maximize your coverage.

Question 47

Can I remove mold myself with bleach?

Accepted Answer

Health Canada and the IICRC strongly advise against DIY mold removal for any area larger than 1 square metre. Bleach only kills surface mold and does not address airborne spores or hidden colonies behind walls. Improper disturbance spreads spores throughout your home, potentially turning a small problem into whole-home contamination. Professional containment and HEPA filtration are essential.

Question 48

How much does mold removal cost in Toronto?

Accepted Answer

Costs range from $500–$1,500 for minor remediation (under 10 sq ft) to $10,000–$25,000+ for extensive black mold requiring Level 3 protocols. Most residential projects fall in the $1,500–$6,000 range. We provide free inspections with detailed written estimates before any work begins. Insurance typically covers a significant portion when water damage is involved.

Question 49

What areas of Toronto do you serve for mold removal?

Accepted Answer

We provide mold removal and remediation services across the entire Greater Toronto Area including Toronto, North York, Scarborough, Etobicoke, Mississauga, Brampton, Markham, Vaughan, Richmond Hill, Oakville, Burlington, Ajax, Pickering, and 40+ additional communities. Our strategic dispatch zones ensure rapid response across all GTA locations.

Question 50

How do I know if my home has asbestos?

Accepted Answer

Homes built before 1990 in Toronto commonly contain asbestos in floor tiles, pipe insulation, vermiculite attic insulation, popcorn ceilings, drywall joint compound, and roofing materials. The only way to confirm is professional testing — you cannot identify asbestos by visual inspection alone.

Question 51

Is asbestos dangerous if left undisturbed?

Accepted Answer

Intact, undisturbed asbestos-containing materials generally pose low risk. However, they become dangerous when damaged, deteriorated, or disturbed during renovation. If you're planning any renovation work on a pre-1990 home, testing is essential before starting.

Question 52

How much does asbestos removal cost in Toronto?

Accepted Answer

Costs vary by material type, quantity, and accessibility. Small projects like pipe wrap removal may start at $1,500–$3,000. Larger projects like vermiculite insulation removal from an attic can range from $5,000–$15,000+. We provide free estimates after inspection.

Question 53

How long does asbestos removal take?

Accepted Answer

Small-scale removal (single room or limited materials) can be completed in 1–3 days. Larger whole-house projects typically take 1–2 weeks including setup, removal, and clearance testing. We minimize disruption and work around your schedule when possible.

Question 54

Do I need a permit for asbestos removal in Toronto?

Accepted Answer

Ontario requires notification to the Ministry of Labour for Type 2 and Type 3 asbestos operations. Our team handles all regulatory requirements, permits, and notifications as part of our service. We ensure full compliance with Ontario Regulation 278/05.

Question 55

Can I remove asbestos myself?

Accepted Answer

Ontario regulations prohibit homeowners from performing Type 2 or Type 3 asbestos removal. Even for small quantities, professional removal is strongly recommended due to the serious health risks. Improper removal can contaminate your entire home and endanger your family's health.

Question 56

What types of demolition do you handle?

Accepted Answer

We specialize in interior and selective demolition for residential and commercial properties — kitchens, bathrooms, basements, full floors, commercial tenant improvements, and damage-related tear-outs. We handle everything from single-room strip-outs to full interior gutting.

Question 57

Do I need a permit for demolition in Toronto?

Accepted Answer

Interior demolition in Toronto typically requires a building permit, especially if structural elements, plumbing, or electrical systems are involved. We handle all permit applications and ensure full compliance with City of Toronto building codes.

Question 58

How do you handle asbestos during demolition?

Accepted Answer

Before any demolition begins on pre-1990 buildings, we test for asbestos and other hazardous materials. If present, our certified abatement crew removes them following Ontario Regulation 278/05 before general demolition proceeds. This protects workers and occupants.

Question 59

How much does demolition cost in Toronto?

Accepted Answer

Costs depend on the scope, accessibility, hazardous materials, and disposal requirements. Kitchen demolition typically ranges from $2,000–$5,000, bathroom demolition from $1,500–$3,500, and full basement strip-outs from $3,000–$8,000. We provide free detailed estimates.

Question 60

Can you do demolition and renovation together?

Accepted Answer

Absolutely — that's our specialty. As a full-service restoration and renovation company, we handle the complete cycle: demolition, structural work, and full rebuild. This eliminates coordination headaches between multiple contractors and ensures a seamless project.

Question 61

How long does interior demolition take?

Accepted Answer

A single room (kitchen or bathroom) typically takes 1–2 days. Full-floor or whole-house interior demolition can take 3–7 days. Commercial spaces vary based on size. Hazardous material abatement, if needed, adds 1–3 days before demolition can begin.

Question 62

What should I do immediately after a fire?

Accepted Answer

First, ensure everyone is safe and do not re-enter the property until the fire department clears it. Contact your insurance company to report the loss. Then call Pro Max Restoration at 416-988-3539 — we provide 24/7 emergency response to secure your property, prevent further damage, and begin the restoration process immediately.

Question 63

How long does fire damage restoration take?

Accepted Answer

Timeline depends on severity. Minor smoke and soot damage in a single room may take 1–2 weeks. Moderate fire damage affecting multiple rooms typically takes 3–6 weeks. Major structural fire damage requiring full rebuild can take 2–4 months. We provide a detailed timeline during our initial assessment.

Question 64

Does insurance cover fire damage restoration?

Accepted Answer

Yes — fire damage is covered by virtually all homeowner and commercial property insurance policies in Ontario. Coverage typically includes emergency services, cleanup, structural repair, content restoration, and temporary living expenses. We work directly with all major Canadian insurers and handle the claims documentation for you.

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