Is there anything I can do to prevent a sewage backup into my home?

You can do the following to help prevent a sewage backup:

  • Avoid putting grease down your garbage disposal or household drain. It can solidify, collect debris and accumulate in city lines, or build up in your own system.
  • Never flush disposable diapers, wipes, sanitary napkins, or paper towels down the toilet. They could plug up your drains and may damage your plumbing system.
  • If you have an older home your lateral pipe joints could have deteriorated. Consider whether the roots of large shrubs or trees near the line could invade and break pipes. It is a good idea to know the location of your lateral line(s). Property maps can often be acquired from your city planning department.
  • If the lowest level of your home is below ground level, such as a basement floor drain, it may one day be affected by a backup. One way to prevent a sewage backup through such below ground areas is to install a “back-flow valve” on the lowest drain(s). You can also use a plumber’s test plug to close these drains when not in use.
  • Always make sure that your plumbing system vent pipe is not plugged. (bird and squirrel activity is often the cause)
  • For further information about preventive measures, contact a plumber or plumbing supply dealer.

Show All Answers

1. What causes a sewer backup?
2. Is there anything I can do to prevent a sewage backup into my home?
3. How could a sewer backup affect me?
4. What should I do if sewage backs up into my home?
5. If I call the city, what will they do about a sewer backup onto my property?
6. What does the municipality do to prevent this problem?
7. Will insurance cover any damage to my home or property?
8. How and where should I report a sewer backup?