
Understanding Backyard Drainage Systems in Niagara Homes: Materials, Design, and When to Seek Professional Help
Being a homeowner is one of the most rewarding commitments you can make. Creating stability, the sense of accomplishment, and
McDowell Drain & Waterproofing offers camera survey & sewer line inspection, making it easy for homeowners to identify any potential problems with their sewer system. So if you're in the Niagara area or nearby, don't hesitate to give us a call and let us help take care of your drainage needs!
Sewer problems can disrupt your daily life, damage your property, and lead to costly repairs. Issues like backups, slow drains, unpleasant odors, and even structural damage to pipes are common in Canadian homes, especially in areas like Niagara with older infrastructure. Regular sewer inspections are essential to:
At McDowell Drain & Waterproofing, we specialize in sewer camera inspection services that quickly pinpoint issues within your pipes, saving you time and money. With modern technology and over 45 years of experience, we help keep your drainage and waterproofing system in peak condition. We also offer drain repair and replacement and backwater valve installation for complete sewer protection.
We use advanced tools like the RIDGID SeeSnake Sewer Camera Reel with a 200-foot reach and high-resolution monitor to provide a clear, real-time view of your sewer lines. Here’s how it works:
A flexible, waterproof camera is inserted into the sewer line through a cleanout or drain opening.
The camera transmits a real-time video feed to a monitor, allowing our technicians to identify blockages, damage, and potential issues with pinpoint accuracy.
Grease, debris, and foreign object blockages.
Cracks, corrosion, or collapsed sections in pipes.
Tree root intrusion and sediment buildup.
Once we identify the issue, we recommend effective solutions such as hydro jetting, drain snaking, or pipe repairs to restore your plumbing system’s functionality.





Contact us to schedule an inspection. Our 24/7 emergency support ensures a quick response for urgent sewer issues like backups or severe blockages.
We gather information about your problem, such as slow drains, foul odors, or recurring clogs, to tailor our service to your needs.
Our technicians use modern tools to survey your sewer line, identify issues with precision, and provide visual evidence of the problem.
We inspect for clogs, damage, and potential risks like tree root intrusions or aging infrastructure
We explain the findings in detail, showing you the video feed and highlighting the cause of the issue.
A customized repair or maintenance plan is proposed, with upfront pricing to ensure transparency.
Once approved, we perform the necessary work, from clearing minor clogs to repairing or replacing damaged pipes.
We provide preventative maintenance tips, such as avoiding grease disposal and scheduling regular inspections, to prolong your sewer system’s life.
McDowell Drain & Waterproofing is the trusted name for sewer camera inspections in the Niagara region and surrounding areas. Here’s why homeowners rely on us:
We’ve successfully completed over 3,500 drainage and waterproofing projects across the region—earning the trust of homeowners and businesses alike.
With decades of expertise, we’ve inspected and repaired thousands of sewer systems, delivering reliable results every time.
From simple clogs to major pipe replacements, we handle every aspect of sewer line maintenance with precision and care.
We pride ourselves on delivering exceptional service, ensuring your sewer system is restored to peak performance.
We believe in fair pricing, offering quality services without hidden fees.
Sewer problems don’t wait, and neither do we. Our team is always ready to assist you, day or night.
Sewer backups can be inconvenient, messy, and damaging to your property. At McDowell Drain & Waterproofing, we’re committed to providing Camera Survey & Sewer Inspection services that locate issues deep within your pipeline. From simple clogs to complex blockages, our team offers efficient, cost-effective solutions, including comprehensive sewer repair and replacement services.
With over 45 years of experience and thousands of drains cleared, McDowell Drain & Waterproofing is the trusted choice for sewer camera inspections in Niagara and neighboring areas. Call us today to schedule your service!
We are proud to have earned the trust and confidence of our customers through our commitment to excellence and exceptional service.
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
Services Offered
Posted on Mark SwanTrustindex verifies that the original source of the review is Google. I had a sewer backup and pipe failure (the pipe is exposed in the basement, so we had sewage all over our basement). I called McDowell Drain Services based on other reviews, and he had sewerline camera equipment. Stuart McDowell, the owner, was at our house the next day to do a temporary fix on the pipe. The pipe had to be replaced, including a section of pipe outside of the house. He showed me the camera view from inside the pipe that confirmed the extent of the outside repair/replacement, to about 1.5m from the face of the building. His team came on the agreed-upon day and time. The team worked very hard and did an excellent job, including cleanup, all in a day, thus limiting downtime for our use of the sewer. I recommend McDowell Drain Services based on our experience.Posted on Antal AbelTrustindex verifies that the original source of the review is Google. Stuart and his team are the best. They are the only plumbers in all of Niagara to offer trenchless drain replacement saving me thousands on digging up my front lawn. He has also installed a sump pump system in my basement as well as a full bathroom rough-in and waste pump. The work was done professionally and in a timely manner. Stuart is quick to respond to my queries and takes pride in his work. There is no question- Stuart is the first guy I call if I ever have a plumbing issue, big or small!Posted on Chris MansurTrustindex verifies that the original source of the review is Google. McDowell Drain & Waterproofing is my go-to company for any drainage issues. I wouldn’t call anyone else. This is now the second time I’ve used their services and both times the service was exceptional. Stuart is one of the nicest and most honest, knowledgeable, and reliable professionals I’ve ever dealt with. Both times that I had flooding issues, he was quick to respond, gave very reasonable quotes, finished on time, and provided services that exceeded my expectations. He also ensured I was happy with the service at the end. I’ve even had other contractors on unrelated issues tell me how good the quality of work is with the water mitigation system that he installed. 5/5 stars!Posted on Adina AslamTrustindex verifies that the original source of the review is Google. Stuart was so helpful form the start. He not only gave me an accurate quote over the phone, but also followed through and charged me the exact amount that was quoted initially while other companies would charge a service fee to even come out and look at the issue. He provided same day service. He spent several hours in fixing the kitchen drain and cleaning it out, but charged a very low amount for his labour. He sent me photos of the issue, kept calling me throughout the process to explain the steps he was taking to fix it and then cleaned up before he left. It was a really tough mess stuck in the pipes that would’ve cost me twice to get it cleaned by someone else. I appreciate the honesty and excellent customer service he provided me with throughout the process. I can’t say enough good things about him. I will for sure be calling Stuart for any of the future plumbing needs. Thankyou for resolving this issue promptly and doing it so professionallyPosted on Ryan SicilianoTrustindex verifies that the original source of the review is Google. We had a sewage issue and Stuart quickly answered the call and cleared the pipes. He then quickly located the problem. He assured me that he would soon have a crew out to resolve the issue. He told me I could call him if anything came up before workers arrived. Contacted me on which was a Sunday and said a crew would be out Monday morning which they were! Where the sewer needed to be replaced was below my porch into the basement. The crew Alek and Igor dug by hand. This was even more laborious job due to the thick clay in our area. The job was completed and work site cleaned up impeccably. I am thankful to Stuart for his immediate attention and honest assessment! Also for the great crew he provided. They were professional, respectful and cheerful through the duration of the grueling and unpleasant work they have to deal with. Thank you so much!! Update...Called Stuart as having sewer smell in basement. He came over immediately and found the issue. There was no cap on a drain from a previous installation that he hadn't done. Stuart went out to Home Depot purchased a drain cover, returned and replaced it! His immediate responses and kindness go above and beyond! I am so very grateful! Gaye SicilianoPosted on Lynn HarrisTrustindex verifies that the original source of the review is Google. RESPONSIVE. KNOWLEDGEABLE. AFFORDABLE. AMAZING. I chose McDowell Drain and Waterproofing based on reviews, and I am happy to say I had the same great experience as many others! Stuart is a true pro - responded to our request right away, and came out the next day. He explained everything and showed images of the issue, and within the week his crew was working on our drain repair. His crew was amazing and went above and beyond our expectations. Highly recommended!Posted on Prabh SandeepTrustindex verifies that the original source of the review is Google. Highly recommend this waterproofing team in Niagara! They installed a sump pump and did exterior waterproofing using top-quality materials. Stu and his crew were knowledgeable, kind, and did an amazing job at a fair price. Thank you for saving our home!Posted on Prabhjot KaurTrustindex verifies that the original source of the review is Google. Best waterproofing contractors in the niagara region. They installed sump pump in my house in niagara and also did exterior waterproofing, they used high quality products and team was very compassionate and knowledgeable. They are expert at what they do, thank you stu for amazing work you did, you really saved us at a very reasonable price.Posted on Orma BleeksTrustindex verifies that the original source of the review is Google. Stuart and his crew highly efficient, explained the process, dealt with complications at no extra cost and my lawn looks better than it did before. Also the least expensive quote. A true professional who takes pride in his work.Posted on Bones380Trustindex verifies that the original source of the review is Google. Stuart went above and beyond for me. It was a delight to work with an honest contractor for a change. He and his team were tidy, punctual and fast! As a bonus, he gave me the best quote! Highly, highly recommend McDowell Drain & Waterproofing.

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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. |
It’s a diagnostic tool that uses a high-resolution camera to inspect the inside of your pipes for damage or blockages.
It detects cracks, leaks, blockages, root intrusion, and pipe misalignments.
It’s non-invasive, accurate, and identifies problems without unnecessary digging.
If you experience frequent clogs, backups, or slow drains, an inspection can identify the underlying issue.
Most inspections are completed within 1-2 hours.
Yes, it’s a great way to assess the condition of the plumbing in older or new homes.
Yes, early detection of issues reduces the risk of costly repairs or emergencies.
Pricing varies based on the scope of the inspection. Contact us for a detailed quote.