When your drains start to fail, you want to make sure that the job is done right. That's why McDowell Drain & Waterproofing offers professional clearing of blocked drains. Our expertise ensures that your drain systems will work reliably for years to come, saving time, money and stress down the line.
From sewer camera inspection and waterproofing of basement to backwater valve installation, Foundation Services and trench-less sewer replacement, we’ve got you covered with trusted solutions for every drainage issue.
Clogged drains are a common issue in Canadian homes, particularly in regions like Ontario, where weather extremes and daily household activities contribute to drainage problems. Over time, debris such as food, grease, soap scum, hair, and even tree roots can block the flow of water, causing serious issues such as:
Canadian winters add another layer of complexity, as frozen pipes and ice blockages can worsen clogs and lead to costly pipe bursts. Regular maintenance and professional services are essential to keep your home’s drainage system functioning smoothly.






Inspection with Drain Cameras
Advanced camera systems are used to inspect the interior of your pipes, accurately identifying the location and type of clog.
Targeted Solutions for Specific Drains
Kitchen drains often accumulate grease, food particles, and soap residue. Our methods include using mechanical augers or hydro jetting to clear blockages safely and efficiently.
Clog Removal Techniques
High-pressure water jets effectively clear grease, sludge, and other stubborn debris without damaging pipes.
Preventative Maintenance
Post-service, we provide maintenance tips and offer regular cleaning services to ensure your drains remain in optimal condition.






At McDowell Drain & Waterproofing, we follow a proven process to address all your drainage concerns

Initial Consultation
Our 24/7 emergency support ensures that we can respond to your drainage problem promptly, whether it’s a minor clog or a major blockage
Comprehensive Inspection
We use cutting-edge camera systems to pinpoint the exact issue and customize our solution for your home’s specific needs.

Effective Drain Clearing
Using hydro jetting, snaking, or other advanced techniques, we clear the clog without causing any damage to your pipes.
Post-Service Testing
Once the drains are cleared, we test the system thoroughly to ensure free-flowing pipes and prevent recurrence.

Optional Maintenance Plans
To keep your drainage system functioning efficiently, we offer regular maintenance packages tailored to your home.
McDowell Drain & Waterproofing is your trusted partner for resolving clogged drain repair services and beyond. Here’s why Canadian homeowners consistently choose us:
We had some drainage issues and called McDowell Drain & Waterproofing. It was GREAT service, he called me right back and was here within 2 hours. Solved the problem and haven’t had any issues since. On top of great service, Stuart was very friendly, helpful and knowledgeable! I would highly recommend and will certainly be calling him for any plumbing issues we may have in the future!:)
Sara Swayze
Professional from first contact to job completion. Job was to install a sewer backwater valve but once the floor was opened, it was evident that a sump pump installation was also required. Quickly pivoted to accommodate the additional work scope and still meet the timeline completion. Stuart, the owner is knowledgeable, professional and puts you at ease. Alex the installer did great work and paid attention to details. He was always receptive to any questions or concerns. Would not hesitate to recommend them for your plumbing needs.
David North
MCDOWELL DRAIN & WATERPROOFING, led by Stuart, truly stands out in the professional field. As someone with experience in spotting professionalism, I was thoroughly impressed by Stuart’s ability to listen attentively and resolve the issue promptly as promised. His honesty and competitive pricing, coupled with the high quality of his work, make him a standout choice for any drain and waterproofing needs. I wholeheartedly recommend him to anyone seeking top-notch service in this field!
Nancy Heckman
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Laurence StevenTrustindex verifies that the original source of the review is Google.
Stuart McDowell and his team deserve the five star rating! In the aftermath of the two deluges north St. Catharines experienced in August 2026 we were left reeling. Stuart responded promptly to our call for a site visit and estimates. He helped us develop and put in place a water mitigation plan for both our interior and exterior needs. Despite being run off his feet with calls across the affected region of the city, Stuart kept us in the loop. We love our 1952 vintage cottage home and McDowell Drain and Waterproofing have helped us make it able to resist the storms that will surely come in the future.Posted on Google![]()
Anthony STrustindex verifies that the original source of the review is Google.
Stu came by after we noticed hydrostatic pressure and water in the basement. He spent over an hour of his own time making sure he had the right diagnosis of what was causing the pressure and came up with the most effective and cost efficient solution. He is honest, thorough and explained his solution. Crew came by within a few days right before a major storm and they were clean and quick. No more water and we can sleep easy at night knowing we don’t have to wake up to any more surprises in the basement. Give Stu a call for any waterproofing services, I’m happy we did.Posted on Google![]()
John MacLeodTrustindex verifies that the original source of the review is Google.
Stuart is a professional. His crew did expert workmanship in installing new weeping tile and sump pump in a timely manner. I would highly recommend McDowell Drain & Waterproofing.Posted on Google![]()
Eric TrogdonTrustindex verifies that the original source of the review is Google.
Awesome service. Very professional. Honest suggestions and recommendations. Saved me money and helped me sleep better at night. Very quick to respond after I left a message on the website. Thank you very much!Posted on Google![]()
racquel calaraTrustindex verifies that the original source of the review is Google.
Exceptional Service and True Professionalism! We had an outstanding experience with McDowell Drain and Waterproofing. The owner, Stuart McDowell, came out to our house personally to look at our water issue. What impressed us right from the start was his thoroughness—he took the time to completely investigate and determine the root cause of the problem before offering any recommendations. Stuart was incredibly determined to find the right, long-term solution for us. It is rare to find someone so dedicated to their craft. Beyond his technical expertise, he is a true gentleman and a consummate professional. It’s also very clear that he runs his business with high integrity; he is incredibly fair to both his clients and his workers. If you are looking for an honest, professional, and highly skilled waterproofing company, I cannot recommend Stuart and his team highly enough!Posted on Google![]()
bruceTrustindex verifies that the original source of the review is Google.
I am writing this review to commend Stuart for his honesty. My neighbour and I had an issue with draining from our window wells. Stuart explained how the drain works and it was probably a matter of water overload rather than a plugged drain. With our lack of knowledge Stuart could have convinced us to engage in an expensive excavation. He values his integrity and we value businesses with this type of leadership.Posted on Google![]()
D MTrustindex verifies that the original source of the review is Google.
This company is fantastic, Stuart arrived on time and immediately solved our sump pump issue. I will be recommending this company to anyone with drain service issues. 5 starsVerified by TrustindexTrustindex verified badge is the Universal Symbol of Trust. Only the greatest companies can get the verified badge who has a review score above 4.5, based on customer reviews over the past 12 months. Read more
USP | Details |
|---|---|
| 45+ Years of Proven Industry Experience | McDowell Drain & Waterproofing has been protecting homes for over four decades—experience that cannot be replicated. |
| 20-Year Written Warranty on Waterproofing Systems | Long-term protection backed by a 20-year warranty, not short-term promises. |
| 3,500+ Successfully Completed Projects | Thousands of waterproofing and drainage projects completed across residential properties. |
| Niagara Region Specialists | Deep expertise in local soil conditions, water tables, and aging infrastructure unique to the Niagara Region. |
| Complete Drainage & Waterproofing Solutions | Interior waterproofing, exterior waterproofing, drain repair, sump pumps, backwater valves—handled by one expert team. |
| Permanent Fixes, Not Temporary Repairs | Root-cause solutions that stop water problems permanently, not seasonal patchwork. |
| Honest Diagnostics & Clear Explanations | Homeowners receive transparent inspections with practical recommendations—no scare tactics. |
| Trusted by Local Homeowners for Generations | A reputation built through decades of consistent workmanship and word-of-mouth trust. |
| Clean, Respectful, Professional Worksites | Work completed with care for the home, landscaping, and living space. |
| Fast Response for Drainage & Water Emergencies | When water threatens your home, McDowell responds quickly to limit damage. |
Clogged drains are often caused by grease buildup, hair, soap scum, food particles, and even tree root intrusion. The hard water in the Niagara region can also contribute to residue buildup over time. Regular maintenance can prevent these issues.
Signs of a clogged drain include slow drainage, gurgling sounds, foul odors, or water backing up in sinks, tubs, or toilets. If you notice any of these, it’s time to call a professional drain service in the Niagara region.
While minor clogs can sometimes be cleared with a plunger or store-bought drain cleaner, deeper or more severe blockages require professional tools and expertise. DIY methods may temporarily fix the issue but can damage your pipes if used incorrectly.
At McDowell Drain & Waterproofing, we use advanced methods like hydro-jetting, which uses high-pressure water to clear debris, and drain snakes for tougher blockages. These techniques are safe, effective, and eco-friendly.
Chemical cleaners can harm your pipes, especially if they are older or made of materials like cast iron. They may also be ineffective for severe clogs. Our experts recommend professional services to avoid long-term damage.
Prevent clogged drains by avoiding pouring grease down the sink, using drain strainers to catch debris, and flushing your drains with hot water regularly. Scheduling routine inspections with a local service like McDowell can also help.
We offer 24/7 emergency support across the Niagara region, including St. Catharines, Niagara Falls, Welland, and more. Our team ensures prompt service to resolve your clogged drain issues.
Yes, we provide customized maintenance plans to keep your drains flowing smoothly year-round. Regular inspections and cleanings can help prevent costly repairs in the future.