Severe Weather – Flooding

July 1, 2026

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There has been severe weather today with heavy rainfall in a short period of time. This has resulted in basement flooding. We encourage residents to call 3-1-1 to report basement flooding. 

More information is available to residents at Ottawa.ca/flooding but in particular, what to do if their basements have flooded. Pooling water on roads is normal in these situations, but we still encourage residents to report through 3-1-1.

Other related key City programs include:

What to do if your basement has flooded?

Recommended homeowner response to basement flooding:

  1. Can you determine where the water Is coming from? You can check if your toilets and sinks are draining properly by running your toilet or sink and observing if that causes water to come up through your drain; if no water comes up through your drain when running water, the problem is likely ground water.
    1. Avoid using fixtures and appliances which require water, until after the issue has been resolved, as any water sent down the drain may end up in your basement.
  2. Wearing appropriate protective clothing, clear any blockages to ensure proper flow.
  3. Call 3-1-1 to report your flood. The City has expert staff on duty at all times who will respond as soon as possible to these situations. If requesting City assistance, ensure someone 18 years or older is at home to meet City staff.
  4. Contact your insurance company
  5. Locate the sewer clean-out caps. Do NOT attempt to open. Clean-out caps are usually located in the basement floor at the front of the home (near the water meter). Ensure an area at least one meter on all sides of the clean-out is free from obstructions (boxes, furniture) to provide access to City staff.

Contacting your insurance company

Your insurance company will be able to advise you regarding standard clean-up and claims procedures, along with contractors to contact. Generally,

  • Understand your coverage and what type(s) of flooding damage are covered.
  • Photograph and document damaged items or items which will need to be replaced.
  • Retain receipts for any emergency and repair work, along with replacement items.

For more information on home insurance, visit the Insurance Bureau of Canada website.

Making a claim

Homeowners who have incurred damage to their home or its contents should contact their insurance company for assistance. Typically, your insurance company will submit a claim to the City for investigation/response on your behalf. Claims can be submitted to the City’s Claims Unit.

For more information, please contact our general claims line at 613-580-2655 or by email at claims@ottawa.ca.

Safety

Do NOT enter the flooded area until a qualified professional has determined it is safe to enter.

Natural Gas

If the flood water level is threatening any gas-fired equipment such as a furnace, hot water heater or stove, contact Enbridge Gas.

Hydro

If the flood water level has reached any plug, electrical outlet, extension cord or electrical appliance such as a baseboard heater, contact Hydro Ottawa.

More information on flood safety can be found from the Electrical Safety Authority.

Bacteria or viruses

Basement flood water may contain sewage from the sanitary sewer. Flood water contaminated with sewage may contain bacteria and viruses which can affect your health and the health of your family. Be sure to wear protective clothing such as rubber boots, gloves, safety glasses and a facemask, and wash thoroughly after any contact with flood water or items which may have been in contact with flood water.

Flooding and your health: What you need to know

The following links provide information on preparing for a potential flood; protecting yourself and your family during a flood; and restoring your home after a flood.

For more information on cleaning, disinfecting, mould and re-entering your home, refer to the Government of Canada – Get Prepared or Centers for Disease Control and Prevention