When Should You Schedule An Expert Storm Sewer Inspection?
Storm sewer systems play a critical role in directing rainwater away from buildings, roads, and other structures that must remain dry and stable during weather changes, and when these systems face blockages or hidden faults, the risk of flooding, erosion, and property damage increases drastically.
Many people only reach out for help once visible problems have already caused inconvenience, which results in more costly and time-consuming repairs that could have been avoided with timely checks. By understanding the signs that point to system failure and knowing the ideal times for professional assessment, you can prevent unexpected issues and ensure smooth drainage during harsh weather.
Post-Storm Checks Are Essential
Following any significant rainfall event, it becomes extremely important to arrange a complete inspection of the storm sewer to confirm that everything continues to function without blockage or structural damage.
Heavy rains tend to carry large amounts of debris such as leaves, soil, branches, and trash, which often get trapped within the system and stop the natural flow of water. If these obstructions remain, they slowly weaken pipes and cause cracks that stay hidden until serious symptoms appear on the surface.
Watch for Standing Water That Refuses to Drain
When water gathers near drains and takes an unusually long time to disappear, it may suggest the presence of internal clogs, broken pipe sections, or uneven slope conditions that slow down water movement.
Scheduling a detailed inspection at this point allows experts to examine the system thoroughly and fix developing issues before they evolve into more disruptive problems. Early detection always helps property owners avoid future hassles, safety hazards, and high repair bills.
Prepare the Sewer Before Rainy Seasons Start
Many regions experience long periods of dry weather, and during these stretches, storm sewers often collect dust, roots, and forgotten waste that harden and block the system silently.
As soon as the weather forecast shows an approaching wet season, arranging a professional inspection helps clean out the accumulated junk and test the system's strength in advance. A functioning drainage system becomes even more important when strong storms or back-to-back rainy days hit without much warning.
Unusual Sounds Often Mean Trouble
Storm drains usually operate without making any noise, which is why sounds like gurgling or bubbling should never be ignored, especially if they happen more than once.
These strange noises often indicate partial clogs, trapped air pockets, or pressure build-up, which only gets worse over time if left unchecked. A trained expert can trace the noise to its origin and correct the problem before it spreads across the network.
Foul Odors Must Not Be Overlooked
The smell coming from storm drains should always be neutral, and if unpleasant or foul odors appear near your drainage system, you should treat it as a clear sign of deeper trouble.
Stagnant water, dead matter, or even small trapped animals may be causing contamination, which spreads germs and brings health risks that need immediate attention. A proper inspection helps clear harmful material and restores safe and fresh air around your property.
Do Not Skip Long-Overdue Maintenance
When months or even years pass without any inspection or cleaning, the system continues to collect hidden buildup that slowly harms the overall function. If you cannot remember the last time an expert evaluated your storm sewer, then now is a good time to act before unnoticed damage turns into a major disaster.
For those living in Anchorage, Alaska, AA Dirtwork & Snow Removal
offers
reliable storm sewer services that help you stay prepared, avoid unexpected repair costs, and keep your property safe through every season.
