What should I do if the sewer backs up into my house or business?
If an overflow occurs, call our Sewer Collection Division at (301) 739-8577 extension 661 or 651 during normal business hours or (301) 790-3205 for after hours, weekends, and holidays.

When you call us first, you could save the unnecessary expense of a plumber. Discontinue inside water use. If your sewer cleanout near the street is accessible, our personnel will be able to determine if the blockage is in the customer’s line or in the city’s line. If the blockage is in the city’s line, our personnel will be able to break the blockage, ending the backup. If there is not a cleanout, or if the cleanout cannot be located, you will need to call a plumber to assist you. If you call a plumber first and the blockage is caused by the city, you will be responsible for payment to the plumber. If you do not have a cleanout, you are responsible for clearing blockages from your home to the city main in the street.

Show All Answers

1. What should I do if the sewer backs up into my house or business?
2. What is a cleanout and where is it located?
3. What should I do if my grinder pump has an alarm?
4. What are smoke tests?
5. What is the purpose of smoke testing?
6. Is the smoke hazardous?
7. Will smoke enter my house?
8. What are methods are used to locate system defects?
9. Will anyone contact me with test results?
10. What is a Cured-In-Place Pipeline Rehabilitation Project?