Sanitary Sewer Overflows

Sanitary Sewer Overflows

Sanitary Sewer Overflows, or SSOs, may occur and cause wastewater to overflow.

Spartanburg Water has a well-trained and experienced team to monitor the 940 miles of sewer line within our wastewater collection system. These crews maintain the sewer lines to ensure the safe daily delivery of an average of 12 million gallons of wastewater to eleven area wastewater treatment facilities, where wastewater is treated to high water quality standards and released back into our waterways for use again.

If you see or suspect any type of spill from the sewer collection system, please contact Spartanburg Water at 864-582-6375. This phone line is answered 24 hours a day.

Sewer Backflows

A blockage in your private plumbing system or in our sewer main in the street can cause a sewer back-up. If you experience wastewater backing up into drains or toilets in your home, contact or a plumber immediately.

Help prevent sewer clogs and backflows:

• Only flush approved materials down your toilet, or your sink drains. Flushing anything else, even wipes and other products labeled "flushable" can cause blockages. 

• Don't pour grease down the drain. Grease builds up in pipes over time and can eventually lead to a complete blockage. 

• Replace damaged sewer clean-out caps. These white plastic caps cover the access to your home's sewer service line. Make sure it's clearly marked and accessible, and replace it if it's damaged to prevent debris from entering your sewer line. 

• Keep an eye on tree roots. Tree roots can cause damage to your private sewer line. In the event of a sewer backflow, Spartanburg Water’s primary objectives are to protect the safety, health, and wellbeing of the members of your household or business; identify the source of the problem; and see service restored as quickly as possible.

If you experience a sewer backflow at your home or business, you should immediately take any necessary measures to ensure the health and safety of the members of your household and to safeguard your property. We also suggest you begin documenting any expense incurred by you as a result of your sewer problem as this will greatly assist you in filing any claims for your damages, whether with Spartanburg Water or your own insurance provider.