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Unfortunately, flooded basements do occur within public sewer systems. Sometimes during moderate to heavy rains, too much water flows directly into the main public sewer and causes a backup. The main sewer was designed to carry normal flows of water, but when the pipe can't accommodate a large amount of water--a backup occurs. During backups, the water flows back and out through floor drains in buildings. The water also flows out of standpipes that drain basement washing machines, sinks and toilets. MSD launched a backup assistance payment procedure for customers whose property is flooded due to a backup in the public sewer. MSD will pay up to $2,500 -- with a $100 deductible -- to cover some of the damages that occur during the backup. Customers who experience a backup are asked to call MSD's customer service number at (314) 768-6260--24 hours a day, 7 days a week. A crew will be dispatched to investigate the problem. |