BEDFORD — The Bedford City Utilities is responsible for maintaining sewer mains, while property owners are responsible for maintaining sewer laterals that connect their properties to the main.
The city has outlined a Sewer Backup Policy that details responsibilities and preventative measures. Property owners are responsible for clearing blockages in their sewer laterals, which are the pipes that run from their homes to the city’s sewer main. An excavation permit and bond are required when digging in or disturbing any street, alley, or sidewalk. The Planning Department at 1102 16th Street issues those permits.
The policy also advises residents on steps to prevent sewer backups, such as:
- Not disposing of grease in the drain
- Not flushing paper products (disposable diapers, paper towels, etc.)
- Not planting trees near sewer laterals
- Not connecting French drains, roof downspouts, sump pumps, driveways, or parking lots to the sewer line
- Installing a backwater prevention valve
- Maintaining the cleanout on their property
Property owners are advised to call Bedford City Utilities immediately at 812-275-1626 or 812-275-7173 after hours in the event of a sewer backup. The city will correct the problem if it is caused by an issue in the utility-maintained lines.
The policy also states that Bedford City Utilities will not pay for private plumber bills unless the city directs that a plumber be called to solve a problem that is the city’s responsibility.
Property owners should be aware that many property insurance policies exclude damage resulting from sewer backups. The policy recommends that property owners check their policies and add this coverage. Bedford City Utilities insurance will only pay for damage caused by negligence on the part of the city.
The Sewer Backup Policy was effective as of November 1, 2012.
Contact: Bedford City Utilities 1614 L Street Bedford, IN 47421 812-275-1626
