Sewer Emergency FAQ

Yes. There's a common device called a Backflow Preventer (BFP) that can be installed in your plumbing system by a licensed plumber. A BFP can be manual or automatic; it can effectively shut off the home or business from the street sewer system during extreme sewage backups. Please note that if the BFP is closed, or put into action, you must not use the toilet, sink, shower, washer, dishwasher, or any appliance that discharges wastewater. If you have a BFP installed, be sure to inspect it regularly.

Call DC Water's emergency line at 202-612-3400 for advice.

  • If the problem is with the toilet located above the lowest floor of the building, or if the problem is with an individual fixture, you can attempt to clear the blockage yourself or contact a licensed master plumber.
  • If the problem is with a bathroom on the lowest level of the home, please contact DC Water so we can look into the problem.

Blockages are often caused by soil settlement, misaligned joints, tree roots, pipe collapse, grease buildup, or by placing items in your system that should not be flushed down a drain

Call our emergency line at 202-612-3400 right away. If possible, move your valuables to the upper floors of your home, and notify your insurance company if damage occurs.

Upcoming Meeting

Board of Directors Meeting

April 24, 2023

Monday 9:00 AM

Announcement

Aerial View of Construction near Watergate Complex Shows cranes and construction of drop shaft underway
Scaffolding Installation Begins near Watergate Complex for Potomac River Tunnel Project

Rock Creek and Potomac Parkway NW Beginning September 23, 2025, to Mid-November 2025

DC Water is installing temporary scaffolding at the Rock Creek Trail site, west of the Watergate Complex. Trail users are advised to adhere to flagger instructions during installation.

Scaffolding installation is expected to be completed by September 26, 2025, and will remain in place until mid-November 2025.

Latest Blog Post
A helicopter lowers a drill rig to workers on the Potomac River.
DC Water begins drilling in Potomac River to explore options to rehab underwater sewer line
When one of your major sewer lines runs through the Potomac River, a backhoe and trencher won't do. That's why we've got helicopters carrying a 14-ton drill and workers suspended midair over the Potomac.
Upcoming Meeting

Upcoming Events

Sep 27
11:00 am - 7:00 pm
Sep 28
10:00 am - 2:00 pm
Sep 29
6:30 pm - 8:00 pm

Customer Service Center Announcement

Payment Plan Incentive: provides a credit back of 40% of the last 3 payments made and in the new fiscal year 50% will be credited. Eligible participants are residential customers who have had an outstanding balance for 60 days or greater and with an outstanding balance of $500 or more.