If you’re managing a property in Toronto, storm drain cleaning isn’t something to overlook. Whether you’re overseeing a condo complex, commercial plaza, or apartment building, storm drains are vital for directing rainwater, snowmelt, and runoff safely away from your structures.
But in a city known for its unpredictable weather, clogged or neglected storm drains can cause flooding, water damage, tenant complaints, and costly liability issues.
This guide will cover everything property managers in the GTA need to know about storm drain cleaning—how often, what’s involved, why it matters, and who to call when things go wrong.
Why Storm Drain Cleaning Is Critical for Property Managers
Storm drains do one job: channel surface water into the municipal drainage system. They’re the silent guardians of your property, especially during spring thaw, heavy summer storms, and slushy winter melt.
When these drains get blocked with leaves, silt, trash, or ice, water has nowhere to go. That’s when you get:
- Flooded underground parking
- Pooled water in driveways and walkways
- Mould, mildew, and building damage
- Slip-and-fall hazards for tenants and visitors
- Potential fines or liability claims
The solution? Routine storm drain and catch basin cleaning tailored for Toronto’s climate and property types.
What Causes Storm Drains to Clog in Toronto?
Toronto’s weather cycles put your drainage infrastructure to the test:
- Spring Melt: Brings a heavy surge of runoff combined with winter salt and debris.
- Summer Thunderstorms: Sudden downpours overwhelm blocked drains quickly.
- Autumn Leaves: Decaying organic material clogs catch basins and grates fast.
- Winter Slush & Ice: Salt and sand settle into drains, then freeze and harden.
Add in traffic debris, litter, and oils from vehicles, and you’ve got the perfect storm for blockages. That’s why property managers must stay proactive.
How Often Should You Clean Storm Drains?
There’s no one-size-fits-all answer, but here are general guidelines for Toronto properties:
Twice a Year (Spring & Fall):
Ideal for most residential and mid-size commercial properties. This covers the two seasons when blockages are most common.
Quarterly Cleaning:
Recommended for:
- High-traffic commercial plazas
- Properties with underground parking
- Condos in tree-lined neighbourhoods
- Sites near major roadways with high debris load
Post-Storm or Emergency Cleanouts:
Heavy rainfall or flash floods? You may need immediate service. We provide emergency catch basin pumping across the GTA.
For a more complete solution, many of our clients schedule catch basin vacuum cleaning as part of their preventative maintenance plan.
What Does Professional Storm Drain Cleaning Involve?
At AquaTeam, our service is thorough and designed specifically for Toronto conditions. Here’s what you can expect when we clean your storm drains:
- Inspection – We assess drain accessibility, visible blockage, and grate condition.
- Grate Removal – Catch basin lids are lifted for full access.
- Vacuum Cleaning – Powerful Hydro Vac trucks remove debris, water, sediment, and built-up waste.
- Pressure Flushing – When needed, we use high-pressure water to flush out stubborn residue.
- Reporting – We provide a summary of issues found and suggestions for next steps.
You can also bundle services like area drain cleaning and underground garage cleaning for maximum coverage.
Who’s Responsible for Drain Cleaning?
This is a common point of confusion for property managers.
- City of Toronto is responsible for storm drains on public roads.
- Private property owners—including condos, apartment buildings, plazas, and office complexes—must maintain their own drainage systems.
That means you’re on the hook for anything inside your property lines, including:
- Catch basins
- Parking lot drains
- Courtyard grates
- Garage storm systems
Failing to maintain them can not only cause damage but also expose your property to regulatory issues and insurance challenges.
Key Benefits of Storm Drain Cleaning for Property Managers
You’re not just avoiding a mess—you’re making a smart business decision. Here’s what proper storm drain maintenance delivers:
Flood Prevention
Avoid flooded garages, driveways, and entranceways that could disrupt tenants or damage property.
Structural Protection
Prevent water from seeping into foundations, underground walls, and concrete surfaces.
Pest and Odour Control
Stagnant water breeds mosquitoes and attracts rodents. Clean drains keep that under control.
Bylaw Compliance
Stay ahead of Toronto property regulations and avoid penalties from neglecting drainage systems.
Fewer Emergency Repairs
Proactive cleaning means fewer after-hours calls, flooded tenants, or reactive patchwork.
What Makes AquaTeam Different?
We’re not a general contractor that dabbles in drain cleaning. It’s what we do best—and Toronto is our turf.
- Based in Etobicoke, serving all of Toronto and the GTA
- Hydro Vac trucks and specialty drainage equipment
- Certified, experienced technicians
- Same-day or next-day scheduling available
- Competitive rates with zero upsell nonsense
From drain pipe replacement to kitchen stack cleaning, we’re built to handle the tough, messy jobs that others avoid.
Pro Tip: Combine Services for Better Results
Storm drains are just one part of your property’s full drainage system. When one part is clogged, others are often affected.
That’s why property managers love our bundled service options, including:
- Catch basin cleaning
- Catch basin vacuum cleaning
- Area drain cleaning
- Underground garage power washing
- Drain pipe inspection and replacement
Want to learn how often to clean your system? Read How Often Should You Clean Your Catch Basin
Final Thoughts for Toronto Property Managers
Storm drains may not be exciting, but neglecting them is expensive.
Toronto’s climate brings a wild mix of weather and runoff challenges. If your drains are full or slow, water won’t wait. Backups and flooding can happen fast, and you’ll be the one getting the late-night call.
Whether it’s spring cleanup, fall prep, or an emergency after a storm, AquaTeam is your go-to expert in Toronto. We help property managers stay ahead of the mess, avoid damage, and keep tenants happy.
📞 Contact AquaTeam today to schedule your storm drain inspection and cleaning service. You’ll thank yourself during the next downpour.