A Detroit sewer backup is one of the worst calls a homeowner can make. This guide covers what to do first, how to tell whose problem it is, and how to keep it from happening again. If sewage is in your basement now, call (313) 474-7729.
First steps
- Stop using water: no flushing, laundry or dishwasher.
- Keep children and pets away from the water.
- Check with neighbors. If several homes on the block are backing up, it's likely the public sewer; report it to DWSD.
- Photograph the damage and keep receipts.
Private line or city sewer?
The City of Detroit says the homeowner is responsible for the private lateral from the house to its connection with the city collection sewer, usually in the alley or an easement, and DWSD maintains the public system. A backup only in your house, especially in dry weather, usually means a clog or break in your own lateral. A backup during a big storm, affecting several houses, points to the public system.
Claims
Michigan's sewage disposal system event law requires written notice to the government agency within 45 days after the backup was discovered or should have been discovered. The City of Southfield's flooding notice is a clear example of how suburbs apply that rule.
Fixing the cause
- Clean the main line from the cleanout.
- Camera-inspect it to find roots, offsets, sags or breaks.
- Repair the damaged section or replace the lateral; see sewer line repair in Detroit.
- Consider a backwater valve if you have a history of storm backups; see basement flooding.
Programs
Detroit's Alley Sewer Repair Program addresses private connections in the right-of-way, and the CDBG-DR Private Sewer Repair Program serves eligible homeowners affected by the 2021 flood. Check the city's pages for current eligibility.
Frequently asked questions
Who is responsible for a sewer backup in Detroit?
The homeowner is responsible for the private lateral from the house to the city sewer connection. DWSD maintains the public system.
How do I know if the city sewer is the problem?
If several neighbors back up at once, especially in a storm, the public sewer is likely involved. Report it to DWSD.
Is there a deadline to file a sewer backup claim in Michigan?
Yes, written notice within 45 days of discovery.
Will a backwater valve stop sewer backups?
It is designed to stop water flowing back from the sewer into the house. It needs a clean, sound lateral and periodic checks.