Sewer/Stormwater Backup:
Sewer backup can be caused by a number of reasons. From tree roots,
clogs, compromised pipes in everyday situations; however, typically,
during a flooding situation sewer and storm backups occur for the
following reasons:
- Infrastructure is not designed to accommodate the flooding event,
especially in older parts of town where sanitary and sewer systems are
still combined
- Storm sewer outfalls are under water or blocked
It’s also important to understand your neighborhoods ‘ infrastructure
and the property history of flooding or sewer backup. This will help in
understanding the flood risk and how to prepare for it.
Property owners can do many things to help prevent sewers from
backing up in their structures. These very same things can help to
prevent backups in the city mains as well. If everyone would be careful
about how they dispose of certain products, our systems can be a great
deal more efficient, cause fewer backups, and cost us all less money.
The City of Ottawa also offers cost sharing assistance to install
ejector pumps and elevate plumbing within structures deemed necessary by
the Commissioner of Public Works . These applications can be picked up
at City Hall.
