What is a sewer backup?

Sewage consists of wastewater from toilets, sinks, tubs, showers, dishwashers and clothes washers. A sewage backup occurs when sewage from a private sewage system or sanitary sewer enters a home and/or onto the property. Sewage backups can be caused by a blockage or plumbing problem. Blockages that lead to backups are often caused by people putting improper things down the drain or toilet.

How can I prevent a sewer backup at home?

• Do not flush paper towels, wipes (even ones that say flushable), diapers or feminine hygiene products down your toilet
• Avoid pouring cooking oils and grease down household drains or toilets. It will harden and eventually clog the drain
• Contact a licensed plumber to have an approved backwater valve installed to reduce the risk of sewage entering the basement if your home is served by a municipal sewer system
• Ensure your property has good drainage and is free from cracks in the foundation walls and floors

What should I do if I have a sewage backup?

• Stop using your plumbing until the sewer problem is checked
• Contact a licensed plumber to investigate the source of the problem
• If you are serviced by a municipal sewer system and it has been determined the sewer backup is related to the sewer main on the street, contact the Infrastructure Department at 705-484-5374 ext. 285. To reach our call centre after regular business hours call 705-484-5374 and press 8. 
• Contact your landlord if you are a tenant
• Check your insurance policy to see if you have sewer backup coverage