Why this matters
Basements in Markham flood for a handful of reasons: groundwater pushing through foundation cracks, a failed sump pump, a burst supply line, a leaking water heater or, during heavy storms, sewer water rising through the floor drain. Each source calls for a slightly different response, and the first step is always to work out which one you are dealing with.
Clean water from a burst pipe is unpleasant; sewage is a health hazard. Knowing the difference, and having a plan, protects your family, your belongings and your insurance claim.
Before, during and after a flood
Before
- Know where your main water shut-off and electrical panel are, and keep the way to them clear.
- Test your sump pump each spring and check the discharge outside.
- Ask whether a backwater valve makes sense for your home; if you have one, keep it maintained.
- Store valuables and documents off the basement floor, in sealed bins.
- Photograph the finished basement for insurance records.
During
- Do not walk into standing water if outlets, cords or appliances may be submerged; call Alectra or your utility to cut power if needed.
- If the water is clean and from a pipe, shut off the main water valve.
- If water is coming up the floor drain, stop using every fixture in the house.
- Move what you safely can to higher ground.
After
- Photograph everything before moving or discarding it.
- Call your insurer early; many policies have time limits for reporting.
- Remove water and wet materials quickly, since mould can start within a day or two.
- Report sewer backups to the City of Markham so they can check the municipal sewer.
Our crew would go about it like this
- 1
Pull the old pump, clean grit out of the pit and inspect the liner.
- 2
Seat the replacement pump on a level paver so its float travels freely past the liner.
- 3
Fit the check valve and union, then run the discharge outside and away from the foundation.
- 4
Pour water into the pit until the float lifts, then watch one complete start-and-stop cycle.
Step by step
- Identify the source: pipe, heater, groundwater or sewer.
- Make the space safe: power, gas and water as needed.
- Stop the flow at its source.
- Document the damage.
- Begin drying and clean-up, or call professionals for sewage.
- Arrange repairs and preventive work.
Handing it over to us
Call us if a pipe has burst, if the water heater is leaking, if a sump pump has stopped or if the floor drain is backing up. We can make the immediate repair and then talk through prevention: a new pump, a backwater valve or work on the water service line if the leak is on the incoming pipe. For seasonal preparation, our guide to winterizing outdoor taps covers a common autumn task.
Older homes in areas like German Mills may lack modern flood protection, so it pays to plan before the next big storm.
Markham note: village-core houses tend to hide cast iron and galvanized behind plaster, while Cornell and Box Grove builds run PEX to a manifold. We ask the year your house was built so the right fittings ride along on the truck.
Straight from the phone log
Does home insurance cover basement flooding?
It depends on the policy. Sewer backup and overland flooding are often separate endorsements. Read your policy or ask your broker before you need it.
How quickly does mould start after a flood?
It can begin within a day or two in warm, damp conditions, which is why drying out quickly matters.
Should I use a wet vac for sewage?
For small amounts with protective gear, perhaps. For larger sewage floods, a professional restoration company is the safer choice.
Ready to get it fixed?
One call, a clear explanation, and work finished tidily before we leave.