Flood Information

Drinking Water Contamination

Wells that may have been contaminated should be disinfected and tested before being placed back in service. A well should be considered contaminated any time the floodwater comes in contact with the well casing.

See Public Health Ontario for well water disinfection.

Flooded septic tank, pump chamber or saturated leaching bed

Do not pump your tank! Pumping it out could cause the tank to try to float out of the ground and may damage the inlet and outlet pipes.

The best solution is back flow protection and drastically reduce water use in the house.

Once floodwaters have receded

• Do not drink surface water unless it is treated or well water until it is tested. View information on water testing.
• Do not use the sewage system until water levels are 1.5 metres (5 feet) below the surface of the leaching bed. Examine all electrical connections for damage before restoring electricity. Avoid contact with them until they are dry and clean.
• Potential signs of damage may include settling or an inability of the system to accept water.
• If your septic tank or pump chamber is subject to flooding be sure the septic tank's inspection cover is secure and sealed. Older tanks have concrete lids that may crack or chip permitting easy access of floodwaters. Septic tanks and pump chambers can fill with silt and debris, and must be cleaned by a licensed hauler. Do not pump your tank immediately! Pumping it out while ground or surface water levels are at or near the top of the tank could cause the tank to try to float out of the ground. If the distribution pipe in the leaching bed is clogged with silt, a new system may have to be installed. The Ontario Building Code requires a permit be issued before replacing or repairing your septic tank or leaching bed.