Rain Alert: Your Basement Could Be Next — What Every Londoner Needs To Know Right Now

With heavy rain in the forecast this weekend, Londoners should prepare for potential flooding that could affect homes across the city.

The City of London has issued warnings and preparation tips for residents to help minimize damage to properties from potential flooding. According to a recent advisory, there are several important steps homeowners should take immediately.

How to Prepare Your Home

If you want to avoid waking up to a basement swimming pool, the City recommends several preventative measures:

Ensure your sump pumps are in working order
Place downspout extenders to direct water away from your home’s foundation
Clear catchbasins near your property
Visit london.ca/flooding for additional information and resources

What To Do If Your Basement Floods

If you’re unlucky enough to discover water in your basement, the City of London warns against entering if the water has made contact with:

Electrical outlets
Baseboard heaters
Furnace
Electrical panel

Safety should be your primary concern. The City advises residents to:

Call London Hydro’s Emergency Line at 519-661-5555 immediately to disconnect power
Contact your home insurance company
Once hydro is safely shut off, remove the water (this may require professional assistance)
Report the basement flooding to the City at 519-661-4570
Consult with a licensed plumber or wet basement company to determine the cause

Understanding Why Basements Flood

According to the City’s information, basement flooding can result from several common issues:

Weeping tiles and/or downspouts connected to the sanitary sewer
A malfunctioning sump pump
Surface water entering the basement
Full or blocked sanitary lateral pipes

Help Is Available

For homeowners who have experienced basement flooding, the City offers a Basement Flooding Grant Program designed to provide financial assistance for flood protection measures. Qualifying residents may receive grants covering a portion of costs for: