Sewer Emergencies

Sewer backups and other sewer emergencies can be inconvenient, time consuming, and sometimes costly. You can help prevent sewage backups in your home by being careful about what you place in your sewer system. Do not put the following items into your system:

  • Diapers
  • Grease
  • Items that will not dissolve
  • Non-food oils and chemicals
  • Paper towels
  • Anti-freeze
  • Solvents

If you have a sewage backup problem, call our emergency line, 202-612-3400, right away. Please note that homeowners are responsible for cleanup and costs related to sewer backups. However, if you believe DC WASA is responsible for damage, you may fill out a claim form or call 202-787-2052 for more information.

Sewer Emergencies FAQ

  1. If my basement is backed up with sewage, whom should I contact and what should I do? Call DC WASA's emergency line at 202-612-3400 for advice. Please note:
    • If the problem is with the toilet located above the lowest floor of the building, or if the problem is with an individual fixture, you can attempt to clear the blockage yourself or contact a licensed master plumber.
    • If the problem is with a bathroom on the lowest level of the home, please contact DC WASA so we can look into the problem.
  2. What causes sewer blockages? Blockages are often caused by soil settlement, misaligned joints, tree roots, pipe collapse, grease buildup, or by placing items in your system that should not be flushed down a drain.
  3. What should I do if my sewer backs up? Call our emergency line at 202-612-3400 right away. If possible, move your valuables to the upper floors of your home, and notify your insurance company if damage occurs.
  4. Should I buy sewer backup insurance and flood insurance? We recommend that property owners consider purchasing a policy or rider to their existing policy that covers the damage and cleanup costs that can result from sewer backups and flooding. Standard homeowner's insurance policies do not cover flood or sewer backup damage. The insurance is relatively inexpensive, and can save customers thousands of dollars.
  5. Is there a way to protect my home or office from sewer backups? Yes. There's a common device called a Backflow Preventer (BFP) that can be installed in your plumbing system by a licensed plumber. A BFP can be manual or automatic; it can effectively shut off the home or business from the street sewer system during extreme sewage backups. Please note that if the BFP is closed, or put into action, you must not use the toilet, sink, shower, washer, dishwasher, or any appliance that discharges wastewater. If you have a BFP installed, be sure to inspect it regularly.

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