To prevent sewer backups, the City has a maintenance program in place. The Public Works Department uses a high-pressure jet and a sewer vacuum mounted on a trailer to remove accumulations of solids in the entry hole. This work is performed on a regular basis, except during the colder winter months.
If a blockage in the sewer line occurs and causes a back-up into the home or garage, the resident should contact a plumber or a company capable of cleaning a sanitary line with a camera inspection. During the intervention, an inspection done directly inside the pipe with a video camera can give a good idea of the problem.
Following the intervention, if the professional indicates that the problem is on the private side, here are the steps to follow:
If the problem is on the private side, it is up to the owner to repair the sanitary line to the public right-of-way. Please note that no claims are possible.
Following the intervention, if the professional indicates that the problem is on the public side, here are the steps to follow:
- During City hours, contact our Customer Service agents at 514-684-1010 to open a file.
- Send the video by e-mail to travauxpublics@ddo.qc.ca or in person at City Hall if it is a USB key.
- The Public Works Department will analyze the video and complete a report within five (5) business days:
- If the image is clear, the City will analyze the video.
- If the image is not clear, a second camera inspection may be requested from the resident.
- The City will communicate the results to the resident via telephone call:
- If the problem is on the public side, the City will repair the problem. The time frame for the work will depend on the complexity of the situation. The City will contact the resident to schedule a repair date.
- If the problem is on both the private and public side, the resident must repair their side first and notify the City to schedule the repair of the public side.
- Claim: If the problem is on the public side, the resident may submit a claim to the City within two (2) weeks of the incident by email to ville@ddo.qc.ca or by mail or in person. A claim form is available on the City’s website by clicking here or at the front desk of City Hall. We recommend that you contact your insurance company to verify the terms of your insurance contract and, if necessary, submit a claim to them.
For emergencies on weekends, public holidays, or after business hours, please call the Patrol at 514 684-6111.
Important notices
- To facilitate any intervention, the access to the sewer cover inside your residence must be accessible and in good condition at all times. If not, the City will not respond.
- The video must start at 0.00 feet and work its way slowly through the sewer line to allow the City to see any defects in the line. It is very important to provide a clear and visible inspection. If there is water in the pipe, your plumber must clean it out.
- Every owner of a building shall install and maintain in good working order, in such building, one or more check valves or other safety devices approved by the City to prevent backflow (By-law 01-893 Section 7.3.2).
- At all times, only personal waste and toilet paper should be flushed down your toilet. Never flush the following items: wet wipes, Q-tips, food, grease, etcTo facilitate any intervention, the access to the sewer cover inside your residence must be accessible and in good condition at all times. If not, the City will not respond.
Things to know
- Roots: A sewer in good condition is watertight. Roots will get inside the pipes if there is already a crack, an open joint or any other opening. In this situation, contact a plumber and/or contractor.
- Driveway Drain: If a resident notices that the drain on their driveway is clogged, they can simply clean it.
Information
Public Works, 514 684-1010
