What causes a sewer backup?
Sanitary sewer overflows can be caused by a number of factors. They usually involve sewer pipe blockages in either main sewer lines or service laterals (lines between buildings and the main line). Causes may include:
  • Construction mishaps
  • Insufficient system capacity due to residential or commercial growth
  • Pipe breaks or cracks due to tree roots
  • System deterioration

In home and office plumbing systems, the main cause is accumulation of grease, tree roots, hair, or solid materials, such as disposable diapers or sanitary napkins that are too large for wastewater pipes to handle. Such materials may cause major backups in city lines as well as in residents’ lateral lines. Please call 715-262-5544 for more information.

Show All Answers

1. How and where should I report a sewer backup?
2. What causes a sewer backup?
3. How could a sewer backup affect me?
4. What should I do if sewage backs up into my home?
5. If I call the city (715-262-5544), what will they do about a sewer backup onto my property?
6. Will insurance cover any damage to my home or property?
7. What is Illicit Storm Water Runoff?