Sewer Blockages & Backups

[Image]

The maintenance of the sewer service – from the property line to the building – is the property owner's responsibility. If your service connects to a WSSC Water main sewer located in a right-of-way on your property, WSSC Water does not maintain any portion of the service except the actual connection to WSSC Water's main line. If you are still experiencing backup problems, we recommend that you hire a WSSC Water registered plumber or sewer drain cleaner to clear the sewer service.

In case of a sewer backup, call WSSC Water's 24-hour emergency number: 301-206-4002 or 1-800-634-8400. Our TTY number is 301-206-8345.

Check the Sewer Service Alerts map

Sewer Backup Guidance

WSSC Water will review your property’s sewer history and determine whether we can assist. A WSSC Water representative or your registered plumber will identify whether the blockage is the homeowner’s responsibility or WSSC Water’s.

[Image]

• If the blockage is the homeowner’s responsibility: Contact at least three WSSC Water–registered plumbers for estimates.
   
• If the blockage is WSSC Water’s responsibility: WSSC Water will clear the blockage at no charge. For property damage or reimbursement of plumber fees, call the Claims Office at 301-206-7095 (business hours).

Learn more about finding and verifying a plumber

Key Information

• Plumbers and sewer drain cleaners must be WSSC Water–registered to work in Montgomery or Prince George’s counties. Always request their registration number. To verify, call 301-206-8588.
   
• Get multiple estimates; prices and guarantees differ.
   
• Registered plumbers must snake the sewer line to the WSSC Water main, including the portion we maintain.
   
• If the plumber finds the blockage in the WSSC-maintained section, they must contact our 24-Hour Emergency Service at 301-206-4002 immediately.
   
• If the plumber cannot clear a blockage on your property, they must refer you to another registered plumber or recommend excavation. Obtain multiple excavation estimates.
   
• Only a registered WSSC Water Master Plumber may excavate or repair underground sewer pipes. They must secure a permit and have the work inspected. Ask for the approved permit copy and keep it for your records.
   
• If a blockage is in the WSSC-maintained portion and cannot be cleared, the plumber must report it to 301-206-4002. WSSC Water will dispatch a crew at no cost to the homeowner.
   
• Homeowners may snake the line themselves, but WSSC Water only accepts blockage reports from registered plumbers.
   
• Homeowners must pay the plumber’s bill, even if the blockage is in the WSSC-maintained portion. If roots or a broken WSSC Water pipe caused the issue, contact 301-206-7095 for possible reimbursement.
   
• If WSSC Water determines that a plumber should have been able to clear a blockage in the WSSC-maintained portion, WSSC Water may bill the plumber—not the homeowner.