For Immediate Release: July 6, 2015
June 2015
was the second-wettest month on record for Alexandria. Multiple storms produced
rainfall faster than storm drains could handle flow, resulting in some ground
flooding and sewer backups. The City of Alexandria has
worked to resolve issues as soon as possible when they involve City
infrastructure. However, many issues on
private property are simply the result of too much rain. The City urges
residents to take necessary precautions to prevent flooding and sewer backups
when possible.
If
untreated sewage discharges from the sanitary sewer system, report it immediately
by calling 703.746.HELP (4357). Remember
to avoid contact with overflow discharges, and keep people and pets away.
Drainage Problems
- Drainage problems may include roadway or
structural flooding, clogged or failing underground pipes and culverts, stream
bank erosion and stormwater pollution affecting a stream.
- Help prevent drainage problems by ensure
that gutters and downspouts are clear of debris, sump pumps are working
properly, grading slopes away from homes and buildings, and outdoor
driveway and stairwell drains are free of debris and possible blockages.
- If rainwater is draining from an adjacent
property, call 703.746.HELP (4357) and a City inspector will investigate.
Sewer
Backup
- Sewer backups can be caused by pipe failures;
blockages (e.g. grease, rocks, sticks, toys); excessive flows that exceed
system capacity (typically due to significant rainfall); damage by contractors;
power or mechanical failures at sewer pump stations; and settlement or movement
of the soil adjacent to the pipe.
- To prevent a sewage backup during a storm: 1)
Install a backflow preventer and ensure that it is in working order and closed
as necessary; 2) Stuff a rag, softball or other material into floor drains to
stop the flow into basements; 3) Cover floor drains with mats and weigh them
down; 4) Place a heavy object on the closed cover of basement toilets; 5)
Restrict the use of plumbing as much as possible until rains subside, including
dish and clothes washers, showers and toilets.
- Wear waterproof boots and gloves to prevent
exposure to contaminated water. After the rain stops, if sewage has come
through a floor or plumbing drain, open the drain to allow as much water to
drain out as possible. Use buckets, a sump pump or other means to remove as
much of the contaminated water as possible.
- If the backup occurs only when facilities (such
as toilet, tub, washer or sinks) are used, it is possible that you need a
plumber. If you have sewage backing up when you are not using any of your
facilities, it is possible that there is a problem with the City’s main line.
- If the City line is operating normally,
indications are that your private building sewer lateral is the cause of the
sewer backup, and you will be advised to contact a plumber. Residents and
businesses are responsible for backups caused in private sewer lines, and for
the installation, maintenance and inspection of backwater valves. Check your
insurance policy to determine if damages related to sewage backups or water
damages are covered. This type of coverage may be an optional coverage and can
generally be added to a policy if requested. The cost for this optional
coverage is inexpensive, and it is advised that property owners with below
grade fixtures investigate this coverage.
For
media inquiries, contact Andrea Blackford, Senior Communications Officer, at andrea.blackford@alexandriava.gov,
or 703.746.3959.
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