It goes without saying that flooding can wreak havoc on your life. You can feel the financial and emotional effects after a flood for years to come. This is why it is crucial to have an experienced plumbing service like CJ Drain and Plumbing, examine your drainage system to determine what prevention methods are right for you. Although every situation is unique, there are two main factors that determine whether you will need a backwater valve installed. 

1. Required by Law – According to the Ontario building code, all modern houses must have a water backup valve installed prior to the completion of construction. However, if your home was built sometime ago, then chances are, you will need to take it upon yourself to implement this flood prevention solution.  Although you may be a DIY type of person, it’s important to know that backwater valves must be installed by a licensed plumber like CJ Drain & Plumbing.
   
   
2. Your House is Below Grade – A property is considered to be ‘below grade’ if it is built at or below ground level. If your house meets this criteria, you will need to have a backwater valve installed. This is because the property is vulnerable to hydro-static pressure and concrete cracking which leads to basement flooding if your house has not been waterproofed.