Before You Call
Your Sewer Backup Questions
Answers about the source, private and City responsibilities, repair decisions and the wastewater left behind.
How quickly can you respond to a sewer backup?
Your emergency plumbing response comes with a 25-minute on-site guarantee and 24/7 response. Call (587) 333-7742 with your address, the fixtures affected and whether wastewater is still rising. Include unit numbers, entry details and the contact who can provide access.
What should I do while wastewater is backing up?
Stop using affected fixtures and keep people away from backed-up wastewater. Do not enter a contaminated area without proper protective equipment. Call with where the water is appearing and whether it is continuing; you do not need to expose pipes or attempt a sewer repair yourself.
What does a backup through several fixtures tell you?
It may involve shared drainage rather than a blockage at one fixture. Tell us which toilets, tubs or floor drains are affected and whether other units have the same problem. The assessment establishes the affected system and repair needs; the visible backup alone does not identify the failed section.
Should I call 311 as well?
Yes. Call Calgary 311 to report the backup and help determine whether City infrastructure or your internal/private plumbing is involved. Give the affected location and fixtures. City infrastructure work and private plumbing repairs have different responsibilities, so that assessment helps identify the appropriate response.
Why does the sewer backup keep coming back?
A recurring obstruction, damaged line or another drainage fault may remain after the immediate flow improves. The accessible system is assessed, with camera inspection where appropriate to guide cleaning or repair. The findings help explain what needs addressing rather than assuming every backup needs the same treatment.
Will I understand the repair and price before agreeing?
The plumber explains the findings, repair options and access needed before the agreed work begins. Ask for the proposed scope and cost so you know what you are approving. Clearing an obstruction, repairing a line and addressing a pump fault can involve different work.
Can you assess a backup in a business or managed building?
Yes. Tell us which areas or tenants are affected and who can authorize work and provide access. Shared drains, service spaces or wastewater pumps may need coordination with the property manager. The assessment establishes the plumbing issue and any access needed to reach it.
Does sewer backup service include sewage cleanup or restoration?
Plumbing work addresses the backup source. Removing contaminated water, cleaning affected materials, drying and restoration are separate work. With your permission, a restoration-company introduction can be discussed so the wastewater and damage left behind can be addressed separately from the plumbing repair.