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Drains and sewers often become blocked and back up in flood situations. Drains and sewers are rarely damaged in floods, but can be checked by flushing toilets and running taps. Contact your local sewerage undertaker for advice and to report any blockages.
Consider fitting an anti-backflow device if sewer repairs are undertaken.
Flooding of a private sewage system can be a hazardous situation for homeowners. It may lead to a back-up of sewage in the home, contaminated drinking water and lack of sanitation. When flooding or saturated soils persist, a private sewage system may not function properly. You should not use the sewage system until water in the disposal field is lower than the water level around the house. Damaged septic tanks, cesspools, pits and small package sewage systems should be serviced as soon as possible. If you suspect damage, have your system professionally inspected and serviced. Signs of damage include settling or inability to accept water. Sometimes tanks or pump chambers become filled with silt and debris and must be professionally cleaned. The disposal field may also become filled with silt. Remember that damaged sewage systems are health hazards and any repair work should be carried out by trained specialists.
If flooding is likely to re-occur it is important to ensure that septic tanks are kept full. Should they be empty during a flood, there is potential for them to lift out of the ground and float away.
20 November 2002