
What to Do If Your Basement Floods in Niagara Falls
Flooded basement in Niagara Falls? You’re not alone. Every spring and after severe storms, dozens of homeowners along Lundy’s Lane,
A backwater valve—also called a sewer backflow preventer or check valve—is a one-way valve mounted on your home’s main sewer lateral. It allows wastewater to exit freely but automatically seals shut to block reverse flow when municipal sewers become overwhelmed. Proper backwater valve installation in Welland protects your basement drains, laundry tubs, and floor sumps from raw sewage, foul odors, and costly water damage.
Welland’s combination of high water tables and aging sewer lines makes basement backflow a serious concern:
● Waterway Proximity: Low-lying areas near the Welland Canal (Dain City, Crowland) face frequent sewer surges.
● Heavy Precipitation: Summer storms and snowmelt around East Main and Lincoln Street can overload local mains.
● Aging Infrastructure:Many homes near Downtown Welland and Niagara College rely on undersized or deteriorating pipes.
● Urban Runoff: Rapid drainage from commercial zones can reverse into residential laterals.
A flood prevention valve Welland ensures wastewater only travels one way—out of your home.
Watch for these warning signals of sewer backflow:
If any of these occur, schedule a backwater valve inspection Welland without delay.
For total flood defense, combine your valve with our sump pump installation in Welland.
Wastewater flows out through your sewer lateral.
Elevated sewer pressure pushes the valve flap closed.
A spring-loaded or gravity flap blocks reverse sewage flow.
Once pressure returns to normal, the valve reopens for regular discharge.
We demonstrate valve operation, answer questions, and schedule annual inspections.
17+ years protecting Welland neighborhoods—Dain City, Crowland, Cooks Mills.
Google-Guaranteed technicians trained to Ontario plumbing codes.
On-site within an hour for backwater valve repair Welland.
We install industry-leading backwater preventers Welland built for durability.
Upfront, itemized quotes—no hidden fees.
Parts, labor, and scheduled maintenance plans.
Clean work sites, respectful service, and “not done until you’re happy.”
A bungalow on Riverside Drive flooded with raw sewage during a heavy storm. McDowell’s solution:
Result: No further backups, even in subsequent storms—homeowner confidence restored.
Extend Your Valve’s Lifespan:
Stops sewage from re-entering your home.
Eliminates exposure to harmful pathogens.
Shields floors, walls, and belongings.
Prevents costly cleanup, mold remediation, and structural repairs.
Prevents expensive cleanup, mold remediation, and structural repairs.
Phone Number
Email Address
Call McDowell Drain Services at (905) 431-5612 for a free quote on professional backwater valve installation Welland—available 24/7 for emergency backflow repair Welland.
Phone Number
Email Address
Usha Tayal2025-04-19Trustindex verifies that the original source of the review is Google. Mcdowell drain service company did an amazing job in my St Catharine house in niagara Region. They installed backwater valve and replaced drain in my house. Stu is very knowledgeable person and did a perfect job in a quick time at a very reasonable price. I would def recommend Mcdowell Drain Services to everyone in the niagara region without a doubt. Thank you Stu and team Jim Naar2025-04-01Trustindex verifies that the original source of the review is Google. Can't say enough about the quality of the experience from beginning to end. We arranged to have Stuart come out to re-assess why my parents drain had backed up before Christmas. The drain had been cleared by another company. Stuart was very thorough, kind and knowledgeable. Through the camera he sent down the sewer drain, he explained exactly what needed to be done and the time frame he could have it done. We had him over on Friday afternoon and by late this afternoon (the following Tuesday). The work was done. A section of drain had to be replaced just outside the house. The two Ivan's arrived this morning, as planned. Hand dug over eight feet down to the issue, made the repair, took pictures and closed it up. Except for the clean-out they installed, you wouldn't know that work was done that day. All the soil was piled on a tarp, and all debris taken away. Both Ivan's were very pleasant and worked hard. If we could give more stars we would. Terrific experience. Quality work. Kimberley2025-03-28Trustindex verifies that the original source of the review is Google. We had 3 drains installed and a back flow valve. From estimate to completed work, everything was completed with professionalism and was quality work. Thank you. Nancy Heckman2024-12-04Trustindex verifies that the original source of the review is Google. We recently hired McDowell Drain & Waterproofing, to repair our sewer lateral in the house. I can't praise them enough. From the first time we met with Stuart 2 weeks ago, he assured us that he would make sure that everything was fixed properly for us and at a reasonable price. We knew from speaking with him, that he was someone who stood by his word. We were blown away with the qoute, since we had a couple previous outrageous estimates. Stuart's workers were very thorough at making sure that everything was plasticed off, drop cloths laid down and all the debris removed. Very kind and respectful gentleman. Thank you Stuart , we would not hesitate to recommend your company. Thank you Stuart Howard & Nancy John McLaughlin2024-09-03Trustindex verifies that the original source of the review is Google. Very thorough. Did an excellent job and cleaned the work area after they were done. Price was very reasonable and I would recommend to anyone. Bhaskar Bhat2024-05-29Trustindex verifies that the original source of the review is Google. Stuart is extremely professional, reliable and a pleasure to deal with. David North2024-05-24Trustindex verifies that the original source of the review is Google. 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. Lynn McDonald2024-05-03Trustindex verifies that the original source of the review is Google. We recently had basement crack leakage in two areas and a sewer backup from an obstructed sewer pipe. We called McDowell Drain & Waterproofing and it was all repaired within two weeks. Both the company and the work was efficient, professional and fair with pricing. We have had no issues since this work was completed. Extremely professional service. Highly recommend for an accountable and trustworthy repair. Max Kamali2024-04-08Trustindex verifies that the original source of the review is Google. 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! John Chabhar2024-03-22Trustindex verifies that the original source of the review is Google. Good job thank you
Flooded basement in Niagara Falls? You’re not alone. Every spring and after severe storms, dozens of homeowners along Lundy’s Lane,
Basement flooding in St. Catharines can strike any homeowner—from Port Dalhousie’s lakeside bungalows to Western Hill’s hillside homes—after heavy rain,
Basement flooding in Thorold is more common than many homeowners realize — especially in older homes near sloped terrain or
Living in Welland offers beautiful canal views, but the city’s high water table, older homes, and seasonal downpours make basement
Basement flooding is one of the most stressful—and costly—surprises a homeowner can face, especially in the Niagara Region, where seasonal
When it comes to clearing stubborn clogged drains in Welland, simple plunging and snaking won’t always cut it. Some blockages are
Annual maintenance is crucial—schedule backwater valve maintenance Welland every year to clear debris and verify operation.
No—properly installed valves allow regular wastewater outflow while automatically preventing reverse flow.
Yes—a backwater valve stops sewage backflow, while a pump manages groundwater. Use both for complete flood defense.
Most installations complete in one day, depending on sewer access and site conditions.
Many insurers offer reduced premiums or require backflow prevention for comprehensive sewer backup coverage.
At McDowell Drain Services, we’re here to provide prompt, reliable, and expert solutions for all your drainage and waterproofing needs. Don’t let a small issue turn into a major problem—reach out to our team now! Call us today or schedule an appointment online, and let our professionals take care of the rest. Your satisfaction is our priority!