Why Is Water Coming Up My Basement Floor Drain?
Water rising from the floor drain usually means the main sewer line is blocked, either in your lateral or, during heavy storms, in the city main. Stop using water in the house, keep away from sewage and send a request.
Request a plumberIs it clean water or sewage?
If it smells or has debris, it's sewage. Stay away, keep children and pets out and don't use toilets or drains.
When does it happen?
When the washer drains, a toilet flushes or during heavy rain. Laundry-related backups usually mean a partial blockage in your lateral.
What about storms?
Heavy rain can overload sewers and push water back up through the lowest drain in the house, usually the basement floor drain.
What fixes it?
A plumber cleans the line and runs a camera to find the cause: roots, scale, a sag or a break. See sewer lateral repair.
What is a backwater valve?
A one-way valve on the main drain that lets water out but stops sewage coming back in. It needs occasional cleaning to keep working.
Will insurance cover it?
Sewer backup often needs a separate endorsement on home insurance. Check your policy before you need it.
How do I clean up safely?
Wear gloves and boots, keep the area ventilated and throw away anything soaked that can't be disinfected. For large backups, a water damage company can clean and dry the basement properly.
How do I stop it happening again?
Regular cleaning for lines with roots, repairing damaged sections and fitting a backwater valve all reduce the risk. Keep grease, wipes and paper towels out of drains, since they build up in the lateral and leave less room for water during a storm. Keep the plumber's camera report; it helps if the problem returns or you sell the house.
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