A sewer backup in your home is more than just an inconvenience; it’s a health hazard that can cause significant damage to your property.
As a homeowner, it’s important to understand your responsibilities for maintaining your sewer pipes (sometimes known as a sewer lateral) and to ensure your insurance policy provides adequate coverage in the case of damage you cannot prevent.
Key takeaways
- Blockages, heavy rainfall or melting snow, tree root infiltration and aging sewer systems are primary causes of sewage backups
- Regular maintenance, proper disposal practices, installing backwater valves and sump pumps, careful landscaping and emergency preparedness can help prevent backups
- Ensure your home insurance policy covers sewage backups to protect against costly repairs and potential health risks
What is sewer backup and why does it happen?
Sewer backups occur when wastewater flows back into your home instead of draining away through the sewer system. When a sewer line is clogged or damaged, it blocks the flow of sewage into the municipal drain. This means raw sewage can be forced back up through a floor drain (or multiple drains) in your home.
While you may think that sewer lines are the responsibility of your town, city or municipality, it is actually the homeowner who is responsible for the lateral sewer that runs from your property to the city sewer main.
Raw sewage poses significant health risks due to the presence of harmful pathogens and toxic substances in wastewater, including:
- Harmful microorganisms
- Respiratory issues
- Skin infections
- Contamination of drinking water
- Long-term health effects
What causes a sewer line backup?
Clogged drains can occur for several reasons. Here in Canada, they (along with basement flooding) are particularly common in spring due to melting snow. Some of the main causes of sewer backup include:
- Blockages in the sewer line: Debris, grease or foreign objects can clog the pipes, preventing proper flow.
- Heavy rainfall, snow melt or flooding: Excessive rain or melting snow can overwhelm the sewer system, leading to backups.
- Tree roots infiltrating sewer lines: Roots can grow into and block sewer lines, causing blockages.
- Aging or damaged sewer systems: Old or poorly maintained systems are more prone to failures.
- City main blockages: A blockage can also occur in a city sanitary main. If not detected in time, sewage from the main can back up into homes and businesses through floor drains.
Some warning signs you might have a sewer backup
The sooner you can detect a sewer backup, the less damage it will cause and the quicker you can call the appropriate professionals to help fix the situation. Knowing the warning signs can help you save a lot of heartache and costs. Key signs include:
- Slow drains or gurgling sounds: These indicate a potential blockage in the sewer line
- Unpleasant odours: Foul smells coming from your drains can signal a backup
- Water backing up: Water coming back up through toilets or drains
- Multiple plumbing fixtures are backed up: If more than one fixture is affected, it’s likely a main sewer line issue rather than an individual drain
Six things you can do to help prevent and prepare for a sewer backup
Taking steps to prevent sewer backups in your home can save you from costly repairs and potential health risks. By implementing these preventative measures, you can safeguard your property, ensure the smooth operation of your sewer system and maintain a healthy living environment for you and your family.
1. Regular sewer maintenance
Schedule regular inspections by a professional plumber to ensure your system is in good condition. Additionally, consider using enzyme-based cleaners to break down organic materials in your pipes.
While you’re at it, make sure all other drains are maintained and clear as well, including:
- Garbage disposal
- Your bath and shower drain
- Sink drains
- Laundry drains
Remember that all wastewater and sewer drains ultimately connect back to the sewer main.
2. Proper disposal practices
Always be careful about what you flush or pour down your toilet drains. In the bathroom, avoid flushing non-biodegradable items like wipes and sanitary products. Dispose of grease, oils, food waste and debris in the trash, as opposed to draining in your kitchen sink.
3. Consider preventative measures like backwater valves and sump pumps
Backwater valves close automatically if the sewer backs up and can prevent thousands of dollars in damage. The installation costs of a backwater valve can be quite reasonable when you consider the relative costs involved in having your basement cleaned and repaired.
Some cities even have subsidy programs for the installation of a backwater valve, backflow valve and sump pump. Make sure you check with your municipality before moving ahead with an installation, as some areas do not allow backwater valves due to the strain they put on the infrastructure. If you do get a green light, work with professionals to ensure these devices are properly installed.
4. Careful landscaping and gardening
Landscaping can play a role in preventing sewage backups, as tree roots can crack pipes and cause blockages. So, avoid planting trees and shrubs near sewer lines. Also, talk to a landscaper about trimming the roots of any existing trees. Finally, ensure your property is graded properly to prevent water pooling near your foundation.
5. Sewage backup emergency preparedness
No matter how vigilant you are, backups can happen. If you don’t already know where it’s located, take a moment to learn where your home’s water shut-off valve is located and know what to do in case of an emergency:
- Act quickly: Turn off the water to prevent further flooding.
- Avoid contact: Sewage water is hazardous; avoid touching it and keep pets and children away. Wear protective equipment such as rubber boots, gloves, eye protection and a face mask when cleaning up.
- Call professionals: Contact a professional plumber immediately for assistance.
- Seek medical attention: If you develop symptoms like diarrhea, vomiting or fever after exposure, see your healthcare provider.
6. Insurance considerations
Damages from sewer backups may not be covered by all standard home insurance policies but may be added. When you consider the amount of money many families are putting into their finished basements, the added cost is worth the peace of mind.
Sewer backups pose serious health risks, but by taking proactive steps such as regular maintenance, proper disposal practices and installing preventative devices, you can significantly reduce the risk of sewage backups. Don’t wait for a disaster to strike—take action now to protect your home.
