Sanitary Sewer
Sewer Back Ups
If you experience a sewer problem please call the Public Works Department at 515-223-6231and state you are reporting a sewer emergency. After hours and holidays, call Westcom Dispatch 515-222-3321. Backed up sewer lines, line breaks, sewage odors and overflowing manholes are considered an emergency.
If the problem is in the sewer lateral, the homeowner or business is responsible for correcting the problem. The owner of the property is responsible for maintaining and cleaning the sewer lateral from the building or home to the City’s sewer main, including the connection on the sewer main. Blockages located in the home sewer system are the responsibility of the home owner. If the problem is in the sewer lateral, you will need to call a plumber or sewer/drain cleaning service. Locating the lateral is also the responsibility of the property owner.
Clive has a scheduled inspection and maintenance program. A city is generally not liable for resulting damages whenever a sewer backup occurs. Commercial insurance policies covering City governments do not automatically cover sewer back-ups and coverage is dependent upon the City's liability.
Sewer back-ups are a problem that many residents may face if connected to a public sanitary sewer system. Because a sanitary sewer is not a closed system, problems will arise and therefore damages to homes and businesses are a very real possibility. The Public Works Department continues to strive for a reliable infrastructure system. However, there are some instances when the system might fail and we all need to plan for those unexpected occurrences.Sanitary sewer systems are designed to handle three things: used water, human body waste, and toilet paper. You can do some simple things that will help maintain the sewer system in Clive.
DO NOT: Pour grease, fats and oils from cooking down the drain. |
DO NOT: Use the toilet as a wastebasket. |
DO NOT: Use the sewer as a means to dispose of food scraps |
DO: Collect grease in a container and dispose of it in the garbage. |
DO: Place food scraps in waste containers or garbage bags for disposal with solid waste, or start a compost pile. |
DO: Place a wastebasket in the bathroom to dispose of solid waste. Disposable diapers and personal hygiene products do not belong in the sewer system. |
Many homeowners policies do not cover or include damages, both real and personal property should you experience a back-up. For approximately $25.00 per year you can add sewer back-up coverage to your homeowner's insurance policy and protect your property from this risk.
Sewer Lateral
A sewer lateral or house lateral is the pipeline between the building and the City sanitary sewer main, usually located in the street. The sewer lateral is owned and maintained by the property owner including any part, which may extend into the street or public right of way.
