Why Heavy Rain Causes Sewer Backups in NJ

If your basement only backs up during big storms, you're not imagining a pattern. Heavy rain overwhelms sewer systems across New Jersey in predictable ways.

Combined Sewers and Surcharge

Many older NJ municipalities have combined sewers that carry both sewage and storm runoff in the same pipe. In a downpour, that pipe fills past capacity and 'surcharges' — and the backed-up water looks for the nearest low opening, which may be your basement.

Infiltration Into Your Line

Cracked laterals also let groundwater pour in during storms, overwhelming your own line even if the city main is fine. A camera inspection reveals whether rainwater is getting into your pipe.

Protecting Your Home

A backwater valve is the single most effective defense against storm-driven backups, sealing your line when the municipal side surcharges. Keeping your lateral crack-free helps too.