While floods are probably best known for causing widespread water damage to homes and businesses, they can also cause sewage from sanitary sewer lines to back up into houses through drain pipes. These backups not only cause damage that is difficult and costly to repair but also can create health hazards. Most homeowners and business owners may not realize that they are responsible for the maintenance and repair of their house or sewer lateral – the pipeline between the city sanitary sewer main, usually is located under the street and the building. The sewer lateral is owned and maintained by the property owner including any part that may extend into the street or public right of way. A cracked or weakened lateral or one filled with tree roots can allow groundwater to seep into the system, contributing to the possible sewer backup problems in the future. These are some of the main reasons for a sewer backup. Let’s discuss them one by one: Clogs Just like your drain pipe