“Basement flooding Detroit” is a common search after every heavy storm. This guide explains why Detroit basements flood, what DWSD recommends, and which city programs have helped homeowners. If you have water in the basement now, call (313) 474-7729.
Why Detroit basements flood
Most of Detroit is served by a combined sewer, where rainwater and sewage share the same pipes. In a heavy storm, the system can fill up, and water backs up through the lowest drain in a house, usually the basement floor drain. Clogged or broken private laterals and downspouts tied into the sewer make it worse.
What DWSD recommends
- Disconnect downspouts from the sewer and extend them at least three feet from the foundation.
- Install a backwater valve where there's a history of backups. It lets water leave the house but closes when water tries to come back from the sewer.
- Add a sump pump where water can be diverted, with a sump pump overflow where needed.
- Keep the private lateral clear; a camera inspection shows roots and breaks.
City programs
- Basement Backup Protection Program: inspections at no cost to eligible homeowners, lateral repair, downspout disconnection, backwater valves and sump pumps in 11 target neighborhoods. DWSD says no new applications are accepted until Phase 2 is complete.
- CDBG-DR Private Sewer Repair Program: for eligible income-qualified homeowners in target neighborhoods affected by the June 25–26, 2021 flood, covering camera inspection, lateral repair, cleanout and backwater valve installation, and in some cases water heater or furnace replacement.
After a flood
- Stay out of standing water near electrical equipment.
- Photograph everything for insurance or claims.
- Don't relight a gas water heater or furnace that was under water until it's checked.
- If you believe the public sewer caused it, Michigan law requires written notice to the city within 45 days of discovery.
- Have the main line cleaned and camera-inspected before the next storm.
Related: sewer line repair, sewer backup guide, drain cleaning.
Frequently asked questions
Why does my basement flood in Detroit when it rains?
Most of Detroit has a combined sewer. In heavy rain it can surcharge and push water back through the lowest drain in the house.
What does a backwater valve do?
It lets wastewater leave the house and closes when sewer water tries to flow back in.
Does Detroit help pay for backwater valves?
DWSD's Basement Backup Protection Program has covered backwater valves and related work at no cost to eligible homeowners in target neighborhoods, but DWSD says it isn't taking new applications until Phase 2 is complete. The CDBG-DR program covers eligible 2021 flood-affected homeowners.
How long do I have to file a sewer backup claim?
Michigan law requires written notice within 45 days of discovering the backup.