Sewer Backups & Basement Flooding in Lindsay, Kawartha Lakes & Peterborough: What to Do Right Now
Looking for emergency sewer backup repair in the Kawartha Lakes, Lindsay, Peterborough and surrounding areas?
Read below to see what needs to be done.
A sewer backup is one of the worst plumbing emergencies you’ll face. When wastewater pushes back into your drains or floods a basement, it becomes a health hazard and a structural risk. If you’re in Lindsay, Kawartha Lakes, or Peterborough, you need fast action and a plumber who handles these emergencies every day.
This guide gives you the steps you must take, what to avoid, and who to call immediately.
How to Know Your Sewer Is Backing Up
Watch for these signs to know if you need emergency sewer backup repair:
- Multiple drains backing up at the same time
- Foul smell near drains or basement
- Toilet water rising when you run the sink
- Gurgling sounds when water drains
- Water pooling around floor drains
If even one of these happens, stop using water. If two or more happen, you’re dealing with a full backup.
Things to Do Immediately
1. Stop using all water
Any water used will push more sewage into the home.
2. If water is entering the basement, get to higher ground
Flooding water can contain harmful bacteria.
3. Shut off the furnace if water gets close
Basement furnaces are common in Peterborough, Lindsay, and Kawartha Lakes homes — flooding near them is dangerous.
4. Call a licensed emergency plumber right away
Backup pressure won’t resolve itself. You need professional clearing and inspection.
📞 Peterborough: 705-486-6835
📞 Lindsay & Kawartha Lakes: 705-344-6835
5. Avoid these mistakes
- Do not pour chemical drain cleaners
- Don’t keep flushing, adding more to the flood.
- Do not run the dishwasher or washing machine as it’ll backup even more.
- Don’t just try to snake the line yourself, it’s usually a lot more work than simply snaking the pipe.
These make the situation worse.
Sewer Backups Happen Because?
Homes in this region deal with common issues:
- Tree roots inside old clay or cast iron lines
- Heavy rainfall overwhelming municipal systems
- Collapsed or sagging sewer lines
- Grease buildup
- Wipes, sanitary products, and other solids
- Aging infrastructure in older neighborhoods
Peterborough, Lindsay, and Kawartha Lakes properties have many older lines, so backups are common.
What Gravity Plumbing & Heating Does When We Arrive For An Emergency Sewer Backup Repair:
We focus on clearing, diagnosing, and preventing a second backup.
1. High-pressure hydro-jetting
Removes roots, grease, and heavy blockages.
2. Video camera inspection
Shows the real cause and the severity of pipe damage.
3. Trenchless spot repair or replacement
Used when pipes are cracked but accessible.
4. Full excavation if needed
If the sewer line collapsed, we repair or replace it same-day when possible.
5. Full cleanup + sanitation
We help reduce contamination risk.
Our emergency response covers Lindsay, Peterborough, and all Kawartha Lakes communities with same-day service.

Health Risks of Sewer Backup Water
Even minor flooding contains:
- Bacteria
- Viruses
- Mould spores
- Chemical contaminants
Avoid contact with water and keep kids and pets away.
Preventing Future Sewer Backups
A few simple steps help avoid repeat emergencies:
- Annual sewer camera inspections
- Hydro-jet cleaning every 1–2 years
- Avoid flushing wipes, hygiene products, or grease
- Install a backwater valve on older homes
- Replace aging clay or cast-iron lines
These upgrades save thousands in damage and stress.
Homeowners Choose Gravity Plumbing & Heating:
- Local, fast 24/7 response
- Licensed technicians
- Hydro-jetting and camera inspection tools on every truck
- Knowledge of the region’s common sewer line issues
- Clear pricing
- No unnecessary upsells
You get repairs done right and done immediately.
Strong Call to Action
If sewage is backing up, drains are gurgling, or water is entering the basement — call now. Waiting raises health and repair costs.
📞 Peterborough: 705-486-6835
📞 Lindsay & Kawartha Lakes: 705-344-6835
Or book online:
🔧 https://gravityplumbingandheating.ca/
FAQ — Sewer Backups & Basement Flooding
1. Should I try to unclog the backup myself?
No. Sewer backups require professional clearing and camera inspection.
2. How fast can you respond?
We respond immediately in Peterborough, Lindsay, and Kawartha Lakes — usually within an hour.
3. Will insurance cover the damage?
Most policies cover cleanup and interior damage. Check your policy for sewer backup coverage.
4. What causes sewer backups in this region?
Tree roots, aging sewer lines, stormwater overload, grease buildup, and pipe collapse.




