| Town of New Canaan
New Canaan, Connecticut 06840
Water Pollution Control Authority
SEWER BACKUP POLICY
An overflow in a wastewater line generally results from a blockage in the main line which causes the wastewater to backup into nearby pipes and drains. Stoppages can occur not only in the main sewer lines outside your home, but also within your home or office plumbing system.
If and when a backup occurs in a Town maintained line, the wastewater will normally overflow out of the lowest possible opening, which is usually a manhole. However in some cases, the overflowing wastewater may exit through lower drains and toilets. If the lowest level of your home or office is above ground level, chances are slim that you will ever have a problem with overflows from the Town’s wastewater lines. However, if the lowest level is below ground level, there is a slightly higher possibility that you may one day be affected by a backup.
In home and office plumbing systems, the main cause is accumulation of grease, other solids and roots from trees. Also, many items which are too large for wastewater pipes to handle such as disposable diapers and sanitary napkins are often flushed down toilets. Never put disposable diapers or sanitary napkins down the toilet. These were not meant to be disposed of in this manner and besides stopping up lines, could damage your plumbing system. Avoid putting grease down your garbage disposal or any household drain. Not only could it accumulate in town lines, it could also build up in your own system and might eventually require the services of a plumber. All of these items can cause major backups in the Town’s lines as well.
In the event of a wastewater backup into your home or office quickly close all drain openings with stoppers or plugs. Keep in mind that ceramic plumbing fixtures such as toilets are fragile. Tub, sink and floor drains may need additional weight to keep them sealed. A string mop can be used to help plug toilets. If you suspect the stoppage is in your home plumbing system, don’t run any water down your drains until you or a plumber has cleared the cause of the backup. If the backup appears to be in your neighborhood’s main wastewater line, call the Sewer Department immediately at the numbers listed below. A quick check with adjacent neighbors will help you determine if the blockage is widespread or if it is limited just to your home.
The Town of New Canaan makes every attempt to prevent backups in the public wastewater system before they occur. Sewer lines are designed to prevent accumulation and blockages.
In the majority of cases, a special rider on your homeowner’s or renter’s insurance policy is needed to cover damages related to sewage backups or water damage. This optional coverage is generally inexpensive. However, you must usually request it as it is not automatically included in most policies. Customers who may be vulnerable to backups such as those with below grade fixtures are especially advised to investigate this option.
Like the majority of municipalities around the country, the Town of New Canaan cannot assume financial liability for damages resulting from sewage backups, since most blockages are related to conditions that are beyond the Town’s control. This is why it is important to verify that you are adequately insured.
If the backup appears to be in the Town’s main line sewer, call the Sewer Department immediately. Crews from the Town’s Treatment Plant are on call 24 hours a day to assist you. If it is verified that the blockage is in your home’s sewer line that runs from the main line to your waste pipe, call a plumber of your choice to clear the obstruction.
If you notice any case of vandalism to the sewer lines or manholes, or observe wastewater bubbling out of a manhole, please contact the Sewer Department immediately.
IF A SANITARY SEWER BACKUP OCCURS, CONTACT THE SEWER DEPARTMENT AT 594-3700 MONDAY THROUGH FRIDAY 7:00 A.M. TO 3:30P.M.
OR CALL THE NEW CANAAN POLICE DEPARTMENT AFTER HOURS, WEEKENDS AND HOLIDAYS ONLY AT 594-3500.
This policy will be open for review by the WPCA on a Bi-Annual basis.
Thank you
Water Pollution Control Authority
Town of New Canaan |