Why Are All of the Basements Flooding?

In a heavy rainstorm, the 1 million gallons of water typically running through the Metropolitan District Commission system in a day can become 10 million gallons. That extra volume in an aging system is part of what causes basements to flood and sewage to back up, according to MDC Chief Operating Officer Scott Jellison.

Jellison said Monday that towns where the water table is high and residents have older homes may see more problems because there are pumps that push rainwater into the sewer system. The MDC is working to upgrade its pipes and to work with towns on its Clean Water Project to get that rainwater out of the system.

"We have a lot of pipe that's getting relined because water is seeping into the pipe," he said.

In the meantime, Jellison said, it's up to homeowners to maintain the backwater valves that prevent sewage from discharging into their basements and to keep their lateral sewer lines clear of roots and debris. He recommended an annual checkup by a plumber because homeowners are responsible for any problems caused by the faulty operation of the valves or the lines that connect from the house to the street.

If, on the other hand, the backup or flooding was caused by a burst MDC pipe, which happened today in Bloomfield, the district will pay for the repairs.

"We've had a lot of calls today," Jellison said on Monday.

Homeowners concerned about their MDC pipes should call 860 278-7850, ext. 3600. The MDC should also be notified if sewage backs into a house, and information is available on the MDC website at this link. Another link offers information on the MDC's backwater valve program, which helps homeowners replace non-functioning valves.