Outside the house
- Clean eavestroughs and extend downspouts at least two metres from the wall
- Regrade soil so rain runs off toward the yard, not the walls
- Keep window wells clear and covered
- Disconnect downspouts from the sewer if they are still connected
Inside the house
- Have a backwater valve cut into the main sewer line
- Keep the sump pump in good shape and add a backup
- Replace washing machine hoses with braided lines
- Put a water alarm near the water heater and sump
During a storm
Without a backwater valve, hold off on laundry, showers and flushing while the rain is heaviest. Do not store valuables on the basement floor.
Insurance
Many policies require separate coverage for sewer backup and overland flooding. Read your policy and ask your insurer what protection devices they recommend.
The City of Brampton has offered help with flood protection devices in the past. Check current details before you buy.
A battery-powered water alarm costs less than a pizza and can save a finished basement. Put one beside the sump, one by the heater and one near the laundry.
Rather hand it over? Our plumbers handle outdoor faucet repair and sewer camera inspection along with everything else on our residential plumbing list.