Reduce the risk of basement flooding
Looking for the watermain break video? See:
www.toronto.ca/water/watermain_breaks.htm
Toronto's sewer system is designed to handle most storms, but not severe storms. However, due to recent climate change, storms are getting more intense and frequent. As a result, the system can become overloaded, flooding streets and creating ponds in low-lying areas. The City is working continually to improve the sewer system in chronic basement flooding areas. Homeowners can also take steps to help prevent their basements from flooding:
- Ensure the ground is sloping away from your home's foundation
- Fix leaks in your basement and around windows
- Seal window wells
- Clear eavestroughs and downspouts of debris
- Disconnect downspouts that empty into the sewer system, making sure they drain at last 18 metres/6 feet from your basement walls
- Install soft-surface landscaping (shrubs, porous paving)
- Insert sewer connection backwater valves
- Install a basement sump pump
- Avoid pouring grease into your drains
To learn more about basement flooding prevention, watch the short video.