Sewage and Water Damage
What's on this page
↓Overview
↓Who this is for
↓Common causes of sewer and water backups
↓What to do first
↓Insurance claims and documentation
↓How to minimize damage
↓Cleaning up after sewer or water damage
↓Basement flood prevention subsidy
Sewer and water damage can be stressful and costly. If you experience a water or sewer backup at your property in Milton, this page explains what to do right away, how to reduce damage, and when to contact your insurance provider or the Town.
This information is intended to help residents act quickly, stay safe, and understand their next steps.
This page is for:
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Homeowners and tenants in Milton
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Residents experiencing sewer backups, water backups, or flooding
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Property owners looking for guidance on insurance claims and damage cleanup
Understanding the cause can help you take the right action. Sewer and water backups may occur due to:
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A plug or blockage in a private service line
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A municipal service line that requires maintenance
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Heavy rainfall or flooding
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A blockage in the main sanitary sewer
Report a sewer or water backup
If you experience a sewer or water backup, contact Halton Region as soon as possible to report the issue.
If there is any risk of electrical danger, contact Milton Hydro immediately before entering the affected area.
Reporting the issue quickly helps identify potential system problems and supports safety response.
If your home or property has been damaged by sewage or water, contact your insurance provider right away – even if the damage seems minor. Insurance coverage and claim requirements vary by policy.
To support your claim:
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Make a list of all damaged items using an inventory sheet.
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Take clear photos or videos showing water spread and property damage.
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Take reasonable steps to reduce further damage, where it is safe to do so.
In many cases, you can reduce water damage by taking the following actions:
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Remove valuable items from the affected area.
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Roll back or remove rugs near the source of the water.
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Use old rags or a wet vacuum to remove excess water.
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Dry the area using fans or dehumidifiers.
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Open windows, if weather allows, to improve air circulation.
If the issue is a leaking water meter
If water is leaking from your meter:
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Turn off the valve located in front of the meter.
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Place rags or a pail under the meter to catch dripping water.
Cleaning up can pose health and safety risks. Consider professional cleanup for severe damage.
If you clean the area yourself:
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Wear protective clothing, including gloves, protective eyewear, rubber boots, and a face mask
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Stay clear of electrical equipment
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If it is safe to do so, shut off electrical power to the affected area
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Follow the manufacturer’s instructions when using cleaning or disinfecting products
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Consider professional cleaning services for carpets, soft materials, or areas with heavy contamination
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Dispose of canned goods or food items that may have been exposed to contaminated water
The Halton Region Basement Flood Prevention Subsidy Program provides funding to help residents correct improper stormwater connections and install flood-prevention measures.
Learn more about eligibility, rebate amounts, and how to apply through Halton Region.