How to Prevent Basement Flooding

Do you remember last summer’s terrible July flood? And have you done anything about it?

According to a City of Toronto survey, renovating the kitchen and the bathroom are considered the top upgrades to a home  but almost half  of local homeowners have done nothing to prevent basement flooding.

The fact is, whatever the condition of the sewers in your area, we have all been  experiencing more severe weather with higher rainfall levels occurring over a shorter amount of time. So here are some tips on what you can do on your end to  prevent basement flooding.

The first step is to understand how your drainage and plumbing work. Every home is different. – You need to know the location and condition of your sewer lateral (pipe)And  your storm sewer lateral (pipe).

– Find out if you have a backwater valve or sump pump, and how to maintain them.

– Find out if you have weeping tiles and where they are connected.

– Inspect your eavestroughs and downspouts to ensure they are clear of debris and functioning properly. If your downspouts are connected to the sewer system, disconnect them if it is safe to do so and have the water drain on to your lawn, at least six feet away from your foundation.

Finally, seal any cracks or openings in basement walls, floors, windows, doors and foundations.