How does sewer main surcharging affect basement flooding?
Sewer main surcharging can happen during heavy rainstorms or spring run-off; the sewer system may not always be able to handle all the extra water flow. Water and/or sewage may back up into the basement through floor drains, unsecured clean-out caps on the sewer lateral piping system in the basement, or other plumbing fixtures that are below ground level. It mainly occurs in areas where surface water and sanitary wastewater share common piping systems. This is usually the case in the older neighbourhoods of the City of Ottawa. Surcharging could also occur if the sewer main located downstream from that area is collapsed or blocked by waste and debris. Sometimes pumping stations break down or construction activities in the area may cause problems.
