Wondering about how your sewer system really works? Interested in learning more about sewer services? Find out more below.

Questions:

1. What causes a sanitary sewer to backup?
2. When there's a sewer backup what should I do?
3. Should I call my insurance company?
4. What kinds of problems do fat, oils, and grease cause?
5. Is it safe to flush prescription drugs or other medication down the toilet?

Answers:

1. What causes a sanitary sewer to backup?

Most sewer backups happen because the line is plugged with debris. However, backups can be caused by several factors including the condition of the sewer system itself, natural phenomena such as earth movement and heavy rainfall, and the incorrect use of the system by the public.

2. When there's a sewer backup what should I do?

When a backup occurs, contact the regional district at 604-702-5000 or 1-800-528-0061 during the hours of 8:30 a.m. to 4:30 p.m. Monday to Friday.

3. Should I call my insurance company?

Yes. Many insurance policies cover sewage backup cleanup and the cost of restoring, repairing, or replacing damaged property. Your agent can provide full details.

4. What kinds of problems do fats, oil, and grease cause?

Sewer capacity constraints are frequently caused by improper materials, including fats, oils, and greases being introduced into the sewer system by residents and businesses.  If you are a restaurant owner or a commercial operator with a grease trap, please ensure that your grease trap is serviced regularly.

5. Is it safe to flush prescription drugs or other medication down the toilet?

No.  Prescription drugs are harmful to the good bacteria that chemically break down sewage.  Destroying these good bacteria means that they aren’t around to do their job. This results in poorly treated sewage, high odours, and increased potential to damage the environment. The safest way to dispose of medication of any kind is to return unused items to your pharmacist.