Who is responsible for back flow sewage problem in my house?
My house had 2 back flow sewage problem in the past. 2 incidents happened within 1 month period. 1st incident: city service’s worker came out, sat in the car without bother looking or checking anything and he claimed on the rain. City hall didn’t take any responsibility. 2nd incident: city service’s 2 workers came down again, took a look and finally found a blockage in the hole. I also filed a claim, but the city hall still didn’t take any responsibility. In this case, who is responsible for the back flow sewage? This is evidently the city’s sewage line outside of the house. Should I sue the city hall? I’m in MA
Many sewage backups are caused due to clogged sewer lines. If the clogged sewer line is a main sewer line, it is under the city’s responsibility, and they are liable. However, if the clog happens in the laterals lines (lines between buildings and the main line), it is the property owner’s liability, and may fall under their property insurance, if sewer back up is covered. In these cases a plumber is hired to unclog the line.
It depends on where the blockage is. If it on your side of the property line it is your problem. If it is on the other side (as in under the street) it is the city.