Basement Flood Checklist

1. Safety

• Do not step into standing water if outlets, power bars or appliances are under it. Call an electrician or Alectra Utilities if you cannot safely reach the panel.
• A gas smell means everybody outside before anyone dials Enbridge Gas.
• Sewer water is loaded with bacteria; pull on gloves and tall rubber boots before wading in.

2. Find and stop the source

Clean water from a pipe: close the main shut-off. See finding your main valve.

Sewage from the floor drain: stop using all water in the house. Every flush adds to the flood.

Water from the sump pit: check the pump has power and the float is free.

Water through walls: this is groundwater seepage; plumbing will not stop it.

3. Document

Before moving anything, photograph and video the water, the damage and the source. Note the time. Keep damaged items until your insurer's adjuster has looked at them or approved disposal.

4. Call in order

1. Your insurer, to open a claim. Ask whether they want to send a restoration company.
2. A plumber, to stop the cause. That is us.
3. A restoration company, to extract water and dry the structure.
4. The City of Vaughan, if the flooding came from the municipal sewer during a storm; the City may track backups by street.

5. Prevent the next one

• Install a backwater valve if sewage came up the drain.
• Test the sump pump, upgrade it if it struggles, and fit a battery-run backup pump.
• Carry downspout water a couple of metres or more away from the foundation.
• Camera the main line to rule out roots or a collapse.
• Keep valuables off the basement floor.

The City of Vaughan has offered programs to help with flood protection work; check current terms before relying on one. See basement flooding repair.