backwater valve

What is a backwater valve?

A backwater valve is located at the exit point of the sanitary pipe under your home. The valve allows waste water to flow from your property out to the main sanitary sewer towards the street. In conditions when waste water flows back toward your home, the valve closes and prevents it from re-entering.

Luckily, your back water valve’s lid is removable and you can look inside to inspect how the system is functioning. Check to see that the flapper is intact, and moving freely. Furthermore check the gaskets on both the flap and lid. If you suspect something is not operating correctly call us immediately and we can come to your home for a detailed inspection.

paying house insurance?

Your home insurance provider may want to know if you have a backwater valve installed, especially if you’re located in a high risk area for a sewage backup. Not sure if you have one installed? The easiest way to know is to check your home inspection report. Some insurance providers require you to have one installed in order to be eligible to receive coverage caused by sewage related damage. Going through the necessary steps to ensure you have one installed and maintain it properly is a lot easier than dealing with the damage associated from not having one.

Tips:

Talk to your municipal government to find out if any local permits are required, as well as to find out what sort of equipment they recommend.
Check that your drain and downspouts are not connected to the weeping tile and sanitary sewer. In most cases, if you disconnect the foundation drain, your home will require the installation of a sump pit and pump. It is recommended to talk to a plumber and your local government department for advice on how to properly disconnect downspouts and foundation drains.
Hire a licensed plumber. They can install the backwater valve and can also obtain any necessary building permits. Municipal governments sometimes have lists of pre-approved plumbers.
Make sure eavestroughs, once disconnected from the sewer system, drain away from your home, but not directly toward your neighbor’s property.

Next Mechanical Group Ltd.

Next Mechanical Group Ltd.

backwater valve

What is a backwater valve?

paying house insurance?

Tips:

rebates

The City of Toronto Rebates