Sump Pump Inspections
Victor Reid, Manager
Environmental Services
Municipality of Marmora & Lake
Office: 613-472-6285
Cell: 613-849-9719
Email: v.reid@marmoraandlake.ca
The Marmora and Lake Environmental Services is launching a free sump pump inspection program. The program provides urban Marmora & Lake (Marmora and Deloro villages) homeowners the opportunity to schedule an inspection with staff to verify that the residential sump pump is appropriately connected to a drainage system and not the sanitary sewage system.
The inspector will work with home owners to ensure proper sump pump installation and provide recommended solutions for suitable connections, if required.
In addition to the inspection, there will be an opportunity to review best practices in water and waste water with the inspector including:
a property walk around to ensure proper extension of downspouts away from the home’s foundation,
discussing best practices for water conservation, and checking for leaking fixtures in the home,
reviewing the clean-out location of the sanitary service within the home, and
exploring the location of incoming water services and related turn off valves.
To schedule an inspection, please call 613-472-6285 or email Victor Reid, v.reid@marmoraandlake.ca. (please be sure to specify full name, address and preferred time)
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ’s)
What is a Residential Sump Pump?
A sump pump is a small pump installed in the lowest part of a basement or crawlspace. Usually, sump pumps are installed in specially constructed sump pits. Ground water flows into the sump pit through drains or by natural water migration through the soil. The sump pump’s job is to pump the water out of the pit and away from the building so that the basement or crawlspace stays dry and to prevent it from flooding.
What Happens During an Inspection?
An inspection for a typical home will usually be completed in less than one hour. The inspector will walk around the exterior of the house looking at the discharge points for downspouts and area drains, such as yard, patio, window well, driveway or stairwell drains.
He will also look in basement areas or crawl spaces to identify the sump and its point of discharge.
How do I Prepare for an Inspection?
The only preparation needed for the inspection is to make sure that the sump pump is accessible for the inspector, please clear a path if needed.
What is the Inspector Looking For?
The inspector is looking for improper connections to the sanitary sewer system. An improper connection is defined as a connection that allows for clear water to be discharged directly into the separate sanitary sewer system. Clear water should either be going to the storm sewer or be allowed to soak into the ground without entering the sanitary sewer.
What Happens After the Inspection?
Depending on the results of the inspection, nothing may need to be done. If the inspector determines that there are improper connections and drainage, he will work with the home owner to provide a list of solutions. A second inspection may be booked if necessary.
How Do I Book an Inspection?
The program is being offered to urban Marmora and Deloro village residents. Home inspections will be offered with daytime appointments between 08:00am -3:00pm. Evening and Saturday appointments are available if absolutely necessary.