Draw the source-to-discharge path
Use visible conditions, records and safe observations to sketch where water may enter, how it reaches a collection point, how it is pumped or drained and where it leaves the property. Label every hidden or unknown segment. The diagram should distinguish roof and surface water, perimeter collection, a sump basin, pump piping and the final outlet rather than describing all components as one drainage system.
Record basin and pump observations safely
From a dry, stable location, note water level, pump cycling, unusual sound, alarm indication and visible pipe condition. Do not touch plugs, wiring or equipment while standing near water. Record the pump label if safely readable and any known service date. Operating during one visit does not establish capacity, reliability or backup performance during the event that causes the problem.
Separate pump operation from source control
A sump pump can remove water that reaches the basin, but it does not explain why the water is present or confirm that a perimeter drain is functioning. Ask whether the proposed work changes collection, pumping, discharge or only one component. If exterior runoff, plumbing or ground moisture also appears relevant, retain those questions in the scope instead of treating a pump replacement as the full diagnosis.
Identify power, alarm and backup assumptions
Ask what happens during a power outage, pump failure, blocked line or high-water event. Record whether an alarm, secondary pump, battery system or generator connection exists, and who maintains it. Electrical additions need an appropriate scope and review. A backup option should be described by its intended condition and maintenance requirements rather than as a guarantee against flooding.
Trace the discharge location
Record the visible pipe route and outlet without assuming it is approved or functioning. Note whether discharge appears near the foundation, a ditch, storm connection, surface route or another unknown destination. Changes to drainage or plumbing may require local review. Confirm the property’s municipality or regional-district authority and ask who is responsible for approval and restoration.
Gather perimeter-drain and service records
Look for permit, inspection, camera, flushing, repair and renovation records. The CVRD includes dampproofing, perimeter drains and roof-drainage rough-in in its inspection information. Records can show intended construction and prior work but do not prove present condition. Ask how a proposed investigation will distinguish a local blockage, damaged component, capacity issue or different water source.
Compare access, maintenance and restoration
A complete proposal should state access, excavation, collection changes, pump and alarm work, discharge routing, electrical dependencies, testing, restoration, maintenance and exclusions. Ask how the finished system can be inspected and serviced. If landscaping, concrete, decks, utilities or interior materials affect access, make them explicit cost and schedule boundaries rather than leaving them as open-ended surprises.
CVRD inspection information includes perimeter drains and roof-drainage rough-in, and its permit page explains that building or plumbing permits can depend on the work. Courtenay publishes separate building and plumbing permit guidance. Determine the property jurisdiction and confirm the proposed collection, pump and discharge scope with the correct authority.
CVRD — Building inspections · CVRD — Building permits · City of Courtenay — Building and plumbing permits
Sources reviewed September 22, 2026. Confirm current requirements for the exact address and proposed work.