Question 1

Who looks after a sump pump in an Ottawa home?

Accepted Answer

The City of Ottawa says the owner is responsible for maintaining protective plumbing devices to the manufacturer's directions. Ontario's Building Code sets the minimums the pit itself must meet: at least 750 mm deep and at least 0.25 m² in area, with a cover that resists removal by children and is airtight (9.14.5.2). A storm sump discharge has a union and a check valve, in that order, and is pumped to above grade level (7.4.6.3).

Question 2

Does the City of Ottawa require a sealed sump lid?

Accepted Answer

The cover rule comes from Ontario's Building Code rather than a separate City rule: a sump pit must have a cover that resists removal by children and is airtight (9.14.5.2). The City of Ottawa enforces the Code through its building permits, and it says a permit is required to install a sump pit and pump. The same clause sets the pit's minimum size: at least 750 mm deep and at least 0.25 m² in area. Where gravity drainage is not practical, an automatic sump pump is required.

Question 3

Is the 1.2 metre sump discharge distance an Ottawa rule or advice?

Accepted Answer

The 1.2 metre figure is City of Ottawa advice, not a requirement in Ontario's Building Code. The Building Code addresses sump discharge in clause 7.4.6.3. It requires a union and a check valve in the discharge line, and that the pump discharge to above grade level. It sets no minimum horizontal distance from the foundation for where that water lands.

Question 4

When does Ontario's Building Code require a sump pump?

Accepted Answer

Ontario's Building Code requires an automatic sump pump where gravity drainage from the foundation drain is not practical (clause 9.14.5.2). The Code gives no checklist for "not practical", so ask the contractor to explain in writing why gravity drainage will or will not work at your house. What the Code sets out The sump pit itself must be at least 750 mm deep and at least 0.25 m² in area, with a cover that resists removal by children and is airtight.

Sump Pits & Pumps

Who looks after a sump pump in an Ottawa home?

Does the City of Ottawa require a sealed sump lid?

Is the 1.2 metre sump discharge distance an Ottawa rule or advice?

When does Ontario's Building Code require a sump pump?