How to Prevent Sewer Backups in Heavy Rain or Floods
Heavy rain. Flash floods. You watch the forecast and feel that nervous flutter—will your basement stay dry this time? Or will another storm bring a wave of sewer water creeping across your floors? It’s a homeowner’s nightmare. A business owner’s headache. But you’re not powerless.
At Aark Plumbing, our emergency plumbing teams have seen the worst—and helped hundreds of families and businesses protect their property. Let’s break down why backups happen, what you can do, and when to pick up the phone for help. Because prevention always beats cleanup.
Why Sewer Backups Happen
Picture your plumbing system like a city subway. When it’s dry, trains (wastewater) flow smoothly through the tunnels (pipes). But during a major rainstorm, the tunnels can flood with water from every direction. If the city’s main line gets overwhelmed, sewage can come right back the way it came—straight into your home or building.
Common causes of backups:
- Stormwater overwhelming city sewer mains
- Blocked or collapsed pipes (tree roots, grease, debris)
- Sump pump or backwater valve failures
- Poor drainage around foundation or in floodplains
The risks are higher if you live in a low-lying area, an older neighborhood, or near rivers and creeks. According to FEMA and local building codes, properties in floodplains must take extra precautions. Even if you’re on higher ground, intense storms can push systems past their limits.
Preventive Devices to Stop Backups 🛡️
Not every storm turns into a disaster. Smart prevention makes the difference. Let’s look at some tools and upgrades:
Backwater Valves
A backwater valve is like a one-way gate for your sewer pipe. When water tries to flow back toward your property, the valve closes and blocks it. Many building codes (like the International Plumbing Code, section 715) recommend these in flood-prone areas. Installation must be done by a licensed plumber—don’t DIY this one.
Sump Pumps
Sump pumps move groundwater away from basements and crawl spaces. If you have one, test it before storms. Battery backups are essential, especially if you lose power during bad weather.
Floor Drain Plugs & Standpipes
Simple mechanical plugs can block drains if city sewers start backing up. Standpipes add extra height, buying you time in a fast-rising flood.
Regular Pipe Maintenance
Annual sewer line inspections and drain cleaning keep your pipes clear. A clog during a storm is like a traffic jam in a tunnel—everything backs up. Grease, wipes, and tree roots are the usual suspects.
Emergency Steps During Storms
The sky darkens, rain pounds the roof, and you feel that familiar worry. Here’s your emergency checklist for stormy nights:
- Unplug electrical devices in basements/lower floors
- Move valuables and important papers to higher ground
- Make sure sump pumps are plugged in and running
- Place sandbags or water barriers around doors, basement windows, and low entry points
- Check that backwater valves are closed and clear of debris
If water starts coming in, don’t wade in blindly. Sewage carries bacteria and can be a shock risk if it contacts outlets or appliances.
Long-Term Solutions for Lasting Peace of Mind
A few hours of rain shouldn’t mean weeks of cleanup. Here’s how to invest in lasting protection:
1. Professional Sewer Line Inspection
A camera inspection can spot blockages, breaks, or root invasions before they become emergencies. Schedule this service yearly, especially if your property is over 20 years old or you’ve had backups before.
2. Pipe Installation or Repiping
Old, corroded, or undersized pipes can’t handle modern storm surges. Upgrading your system—especially in historic homes or businesses—can keep you ahead of problems. Ask about “Pipe Installation near you” for local code compliance and peace of mind.
3. Landscape Grading and Drainage
Water should flow away from your foundation, not toward it. Simple landscaping changes, like adding swales or extending downspouts, can make a big difference.
4. Preventative Maintenance
Sign up for regular preventative maintenance with a trusted emergency plumbing provider. Annual checks for leaks, pipe repair, and backflow testing keep you prepared year-round.
Insurance and Recovery: What to Know
Even the best preparation can’t stop every flood. If you experience a sewer backup:
- Document everything with photos and videos
- Call your insurance agent ASAP—many standard policies don’t include sewer backup, but riders are available
- Only begin cleanup after speaking with your insurer
- Save receipts for any emergency plumbing services, repairs, or cleaning supplies
According to the Insurance Information Institute, adding sewer backup coverage is often affordable and can protect you from thousands in losses.
Floodplain and Code Tips
If you’re in a designated floodplain, local codes may require specific devices like backwater valves or sump pumps. Check FEMA’s flood maps and your city’s building department for requirements. Following these codes isn’t just smart—it could be a condition of your insurance.
For businesses, OSHA recommends keeping an emergency plan and training staff on water shutoff procedures. Regular gas safety checks are also critical if floodwater threatens your gas lines.
Quick Safety Checklist ✔️
- Install or test your backwater valve
- Clear gutters and downspouts before storms
- Store chemicals and paint above flood level
- Know your water shutoff and main electrical panel locations
- Keep a working sump pump, ideally with battery backup
DIY vs. Call a Pro
Some prevention steps are safe for DIY—like clearing gutters or moving valuables. But when it comes to pipe installation, backwater valve fitting, or sewer line inspection, call a licensed emergency plumbing pro. The risks of mistakes are too high.
What Pros Do On Arrival
When you call Aark Plumbing during a backup, here’s what our team does:
- Assess the situation and confirm no electrical hazards
- Use protective gear for safety
- Conduct a rapid sewer line inspection (often with cameras)
- Clear blockages with professional-grade equipment
- Test and reset backwater valves, sump pumps, and other devices
- Advise on next steps, including drying, disinfecting, and repairs
We follow local codes and EPA guidelines for safe cleanup and disposal.
Prevention & Maintenance
An ounce of prevention really can save a ton of trouble. Here are habits that help:
- Avoid flushing wipes, grease, or paper towels
- Schedule annual drain cleaning and sewer inspections
- Test sump pumps every spring and fall
- Consider water filtration systems to protect appliances post-flood
- Check for leaks and repair pipes promptly
Costs & Time Factors
Sewer backup cleanup and repair costs vary widely. Here’s what to expect:
- Simple drain cleaning: can take 1–2 hours
- Backwater valve installation: usually a day, plus permitting
- Full sewer line repair or replacement: may take several days, depending on access and code requirements
- Emergency cleanup: can involve both plumbing and restoration teams
Materials, property size, and the extent of damage all factor in. Prevention is nearly always less expensive than cleanup.
When It’s an Emergency 🚨
Don’t wait if you see:
- Sewage or dirty water rising from drains
- Unusual gurgling or bubbling noises in toilets or sinks
- Foul odors, especially after a storm
- Water near electrical panels, appliances, or gas lines
Evacuate the area if it’s unsafe and call for emergency plumbing help right away.
FAQ
Q: Will homeowner’s insurance cover sewer backups?
A: Usually not, unless you have a special rider. Ask your agent about “sewer and drain backup” coverage.
Q: How often should I get my sewer line checked?
A: Annually is smart, especially in older buildings or flood-prone neighborhoods.
Q: Can tree roots cause backups?
A: Yes. Roots love old pipes. Regular inspection and root removal keep things flowing.
Q: What’s the difference between a sump pump and a backwater valve?
A: A sump pump removes groundwater from your basement. A backwater valve stops sewage from flowing back into your home. Both are vital in flood-prone areas.
Local & Seasonal Considerations
In spring and summer, thunderstorms can dump inches of rain in minutes. In fall, leaf buildup clogs drains and gutters. Winter brings frozen pipes and sudden thaws. Each season brings its own risks—so stay ahead with regular checks, especially if you’re in a region known for heavy rainfall or snowmelt.
If your property sits in a known floodplain, check city or county guidelines for required plumbing upgrades. Local building codes may change after major storms, so regular review is smart.
Stay safe, dry, and prepared—rain or shine. If you need urgent help or want to schedule a flood-readiness check, don’t wait.
Call Aark Plumbing now — or reach us anytime at 888-403-1101 .