During a heavy rainfall event, do whatever you can to reduce the amount of water you are putting into the municipal sewer system. The more stress placed on the municipal system, the greater the chances that you or your neighbours will have sewer backup problems. This is especially important if you have a backwater valve (see Option 15).

Waiting to do your laundry, run your dishwasher or use the bathroom until a few hours after a severe rainfall event can help reduce your chances and your neighbours’ chances of basement flooding.