Identify the Source of Flooding
Determining the origin of the water is the first critical step. This dictates who you need to contact.
Common Causes & Who to Call:
- Broken Sprinkler/Irrigation System:
Contact an irrigation specialist or a landscaping company that offers sprinkler repair services.
- Sewer Line Backup:
If you notice foul odors or slow drains indoors in conjunction with yard flooding, call a plumber. If the issue appears to originate from the municipal sewer main (beyond your property line), contact your local water and sewer department.
- Stormwater Runoff/Poor Yard Drainage:
For water accumulation primarily after rainfall, due to inadequate grading or overwhelmed drainage systems, consult a landscape contractor specializing in drainage solutions, or a dedicated drainage contractor. For more complex or large-scale issues, a civil engineer may be necessary.
- Broken Water Main (Public Side):
If a significant amount of water is visibly gushing from the street, sidewalk, or near the city-side of your water meter, immediately notify your local water utility company or public works department. This is typically their responsibility.
- Broken Water Pipe (On Your Property):
If you suspect a water supply pipe on your property has burst (e.g., a sudden, persistently soggy area in the yard, an unexplained increase in your water bill), call a plumber.
- Natural Spring or Persistently High Water Table:
For persistent, unexplained ground saturation not clearly linked to rainfall or a utility leak, assessment by a geotechnical engineer or a specialized drainage contractor experienced with groundwater issues may be required.
- Runoff from Neighboring Property:
If water is clearly flowing onto your yard from an adjacent property due to their landscaping, grading, or downspout configuration, the first step is to attempt a polite discussion with your neighbor. If a resolution cannot be reached, contact your local municipality (e.g., code enforcement or planning department) regarding local grading and drainage ordinances. Legal counsel may be an option for unresolved disputes.
Important Immediate Actions:
While awaiting professional assistance, and only if it is safe to do so:
- If a burst pipe on your property is the suspected cause, locate and shut off your main water supply valve.
- Document the flooding extensively with photographs and videos. Note dates and times.
- Relocate any valuable or damageable items from the affected and potentially affected areas.
- Exercise extreme caution: Avoid direct contact with floodwater, especially if there is any possibility of contamination (e.g., from a sewer backup or unknown sources).
