Emergency Water Damage Restoration
24 hour response for burst pipes, leaks and flooding, from water removal to final repairs.
Learn moreSewer Backup and Sewage Cleanup in Scarborough
Sewage coming up through your floor drain is a health hazard. Our crews remove it safely, disinfect your basement and restore it. Available 24/7 across Scarborough.
- Category 3 water handling
- Disinfection and odour control
- Contaminated material removal
- Insurance documentation
Sewer Backup Is Not a Normal Water Cleanup
Water that comes up through a floor drain, toilet or basement shower during a sewer backup is classed as Category 3, or black water. It can contain bacteria, viruses and other contaminants. Anything porous it touches, such as carpet, pad, drywall and insulation, generally has to be removed and thrown away, not just dried.
We remove the sewage water safely, take out contaminated materials, clean and disinfect every affected surface, dry the structure and rebuild. Our crews wear protective equipment and contain the work area so contamination does not spread to the rest of your home.
Signs of a Sewer Backup
- Dark, foul smelling water coming up through the basement floor drain
- Toilets, tubs or sinks on the lowest floor backing up when you run water elsewhere
- Gurgling sounds from drains
- Water around the floor drain after heavy rain
- A sewage smell in the basement that will not go away
Common causes
In Scarborough, sewer backups usually happen when the municipal sewer is overloaded during heavy rain, or when the private sewer line between the house and the street is blocked by tree roots, grease or a collapsed pipe. Older clay and cast iron lines are more prone to roots and cracks.
What to Do During a Sewer Backup
Keep everyone away from the water. Do not let children or pets into the area, and do not try to mop or vacuum sewage yourself.
- Stop using water in the house: no flushing, showers, laundry or dishwasher.
- If it is safe, turn off power to the basement at the panel.
- Take photos and video for your insurance claim.
- If you think the blockage is in the city sewer, call Toronto 311.
- Call us for cleanup. We can start right away, any time of day.
Our Sewage Cleanup Process
- Containment and protective equipment. The affected area is sealed off with plastic sheeting and our technicians wear protective suits, gloves and respirators.
- Sewage water removal. Contaminated water is pumped out and disposed of properly.
- Removal of contaminated materials. Carpet, pad, baseboards, the lower section of drywall and insulation that touched sewage are removed and bagged.
- Cleaning and disinfection. Concrete, framing and remaining surfaces are cleaned and treated with disinfectants and antimicrobial products.
- Structural drying. Air movers and dehumidifiers dry the area, with daily moisture readings.
- Odour control and rebuild. Remaining odour is treated, then the space is rebuilt. If the basement was finished, see our flooded basement cleanup page for what the rebuild involves.
Preventing Future Sewer Backups
- Backwater valve: a licensed plumber can install one on your main sewer line. It closes when sewage tries to flow back into the house.
- Camera inspection: a plumber can scope the line to the street to find roots, cracks or sags before they cause a backup.
- Disconnect downspouts from the sewer system so roof water does not add to the load.
- Keep grease, wipes and paper towels out of drains and toilets.
The City of Toronto offers a Basement Flooding Protection Subsidy Program that can help pay for a backwater valve and related work. Check the City's website for current details.
Related Services
Water Extraction
Truck mounted and portable pumps to remove standing water from floors, carpets and basements.
Learn moreFlooded Basement Cleanup
Water in the basement after rain, a failed sump pump or a foundation leak. Pump out, dry out, rebuild.
Learn moreBurst Pipe and Water Leak Damage
Leak tracing, moisture mapping and repair of walls, ceilings and floors soaked by plumbing leaks.
Learn moreFlood Damage Cleanup
Cleanup after storms, overland flooding and major water events in homes and businesses.
Learn moreWater Mitigation
Fast steps that stop water from spreading and keep repair costs and mould risk down.
Learn moreFrequently Asked Questions
Is sewer backup water dangerous?
Yes. Sewage can carry bacteria, viruses and parasites. Avoid contact, keep children and pets away, and leave cleanup to a crew with protective equipment.
Can carpet be saved after a sewer backup?
No. Carpet and pad that have been soaked by sewage should be removed and thrown away. The same goes for drywall and insulation below the water line.
Does insurance cover sewer backup in Ontario?
Sewer backup coverage is usually an add-on to a home insurance policy rather than standard. Check your policy or call your broker. We provide the documentation insurers ask for.
Who is responsible for a sewer backup, me or the city?
The City of Toronto is responsible for the sewer under the road. The homeowner is usually responsible for the private drain from the house to the property line. If you suspect a city sewer problem, call 311.
How long does sewage cleanup take?
Removal and disinfection usually take one to two days, followed by several days of drying. Rebuilding depends on how much of the basement was affected.
Water damage in Scarborough? Call now.
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