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Burst pipe or backup? Close the main valve, then call.A plumber answers (365) 363-2754Call now
Ajax Plumbing Company Ajax PlumbingCompany · Durham Region
Pipe run fastened along a grey exterior wall
Pipe run fastened along a grey exterior wall

The first hour matters

What to Do When the Sewer Backs Up

Water bubbling up through the basement floor drain is alarming. A few clear steps protect your health, limit damage and help your insurance claim.

  • Stop putting water down. No flushing, showers, laundry or dishwashing anywhere in the house.
  • Take pictures. Photograph the water level, items and walls before anything moves.
  • Call your insurer and ask about sewer backup coverage and approved cleanup contractors.
  • Clean safely with gloves, boots and eye protection; throw away porous items that sewage touched.
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  • Ajax · Pickering · WhitbyDurham Region

At a glance

Topic
The first hour matters
Reading time
About 2 min

Why it matters

Sewage carries bacteria. Wet drywall and carpet that sit for days grow mould. Fast, orderly action keeps the damage and the health risk down.

The routine, in order

  1. Stop putting water down. No flushing, showers, laundry or dishwashing anywhere in the house.
  2. Keep people out. Children and pets stay away from the basement. Do not wade into water that may reach outlets or appliances.
  3. Call the Region and us. The Region of Durham can tell you whether the municipal sewer is backing up on your street. We can tell you whether the blockage is in your own lateral.
  4. Take pictures. Photograph the water level, items and walls before anything moves.
  5. Call your insurer and ask about sewer backup coverage and approved cleanup contractors.
  6. Clean safely with gloves, boots and eye protection; throw away porous items that sewage touched.

Mistakes to avoid

  • Running a pump to empty the basement into the same floor drain.
  • Opening the main cleanout while the sewer is surcharged; it can make the flooding worse.
  • Keeping soaked carpet and underpad to save money.

Local tip If the street sewer was the cause, a backwater valve is the long-term protection. If your lateral was the cause, a camera and clearing are next.

Where a plumber takes over

Clearing and inspecting your main sewer line once the water drops, and recommending repairs or a valve. Our basement flooding page covers the plumbing side of recovery.

Questions we hear on the phone

Is it the city or my pipe?

If neighbours have the same problem during a storm, it is likely municipal. If only your house is affected on a dry day, suspect your lateral.

Call now(365) 363-2754