Description of Service / Summary
If your basement drain is blocked, backed up, or causing flooding, Toronto Water can respond to service requests. The City handles sewer connections from the main sewer to the property line, while homeowners are responsible for service from the property line into the home. Emergency situations receive priority, and you must be onsite when staff attend.
How to Submit a Service Request
Requirements:
- You must be at home during the service call
- Snaking is only performed from a cleanout
- Requests must come from the property owner, tenant, or authorized agent
Emergency Priority:
- If water is entering through the floor drain or basement and rising, the request will be treated as urgent
City vs. Homeowner Responsibilities
- City of Toronto: Sewer service connections from the main sewer on the street to the property line
- Homeowner: Sewer service from the property line into the house
- Exhibition Place: City is responsible for certain sewers within the area
Common Causes of Basement Flooding
Basements may flood due to:
- Leaks in foundation walls, windows, or doors
- Poor lot drainage
- Failure of weeping tile systems (foundation drains)
- Overflowing eaves troughs or blocked downspouts
- Blocked connection between home and main sewer
- Backups of wastewater from sanitary or combined sewer systems
- Failure of a sump pump (in some areas)
- Failure of a homeowner-installed backwater valve
Preparing for Toronto Water Staff
Toronto Water staff will need access to the breather/cleanout.
- Remove any coverings from porches or other obstructions
- Ensure clear access to the cleanout for safe and efficient service
