Stormy Weather, Soaked Yards—and Backed-Up Sewers
If you live in Lake Oswego, you’re no stranger to heavy rainstorms, especially during Oregon’s wet winter and spring seasons. But while the pitter-patter of rain might seem harmless, the aftermath can lead to a major home headache: sewer backups.
Whether it starts with a strange gurgling noise or a flooded basement, sewer backups after storms are a real threat to Lake Oswego homeowners. If this has happened to you—or you’re worried it might—here’s what to do immediately, and how to prevent it in the future.
🚨 What Causes Sewer Backups After Storms in Lake Oswego?
Lake Oswego is part of a region that deals with heavy rainfall and a mix of private and public drainage systems. During a storm, these systems can be overwhelmed by:
- Excess stormwater runoff
- Blocked or cracked sewer lines
- Tree root intrusion
- Improper sump pump or downspout connections
- Aging infrastructure
When this happens, water flows the wrong way—from the public sewer into your home’s drains, rather than out.
According to Portland BES, improperly connected sump pumps and downspouts can also overload the system. Even though you may live in Lake Oswego, these regional dynamics can still affect you.
🧯 Step-by-Step: What to Do Immediately
- Stop using your plumbing.
Turn off all faucets, showers, dishwashers, and washing machines. Continued water use can worsen the backup. - Avoid contact with wastewater.
Sewer water can contain harmful bacteria. Stay away from contaminated areas and keep pets and children out. - Turn off electricity to affected areas.
If water has reached your basement, turn off electrical circuits to that area only if it’s safe to do so. - Document the damage.
Take photos or video of the affected areas for insurance purposes. - Call a licensed plumber immediately.
This is not a DIY fix. You’ll want an expert assessment and repair of your sewer line.
👉 Contact Einstein Pros Lake Oswego — Our licensed plumbers are equipped for emergency sewer backups. - Notify your insurance company.
Sewer backups may be covered under a specific rider. Check your policy.
🛠️ How to Prevent Future Sewer Backups
Sewer backups don’t have to be an inevitable part of Lake Oswego storms. Here’s how you can minimize your risk:
✅ Install a Backwater Valve
A backwater valve (also called a backflow preventer) is a one-way device that stops sewage from flowing back into your home. Many homes in Lake Oswego built before the 1980s may not have one installed.
Learn more about this in our guide:
👉 Do I Need a Backflow Preventer in Lake Oswego?
🌳 Schedule Regular Sewer Line Inspections
Tree roots, grease buildup, and small cracks can become major problems during a storm. A video camera inspection by our team can identify issues before they escalate.
🌀 Maintain Your Sump Pump (if applicable)
If you have a sump pump, make sure it’s properly connected—not to the sanitary sewer, but to a storm drain. An incorrect connection can cause backups during storms.
🛑 Don’t Flush “Flushable” Wipes or Pour Grease Down Drains
🧼 Professional Sewer Backup Cleanup
Even after the plumbing is fixed, sewer water contamination requires professional cleanup. Surfaces and materials touched by sewage need to be disinfected or discarded to avoid mold, mildew, and bacterial contamination.
🧠 Final Thoughts
Sewer backups after storms in Lake Oswego aren’t just inconvenient—they’re dangerous, damaging, and stressful. But with quick action and the right prevention steps, you can protect your home and family.
If you’re dealing with a backup or want to schedule a preventative inspection, trust the experts at:
👉 Einstein Pros Lake Oswego Plumbing Services
Your local, licensed, and fully insured plumbers—ready to help when you need it most.
- Learn more about preparing your plumbing for rainy seasons
- Understand combined sewer overflow systems
- Tips for protecting your home from basement flooding