Heavy rain and backwater protection

As a result of climate change, there is an increase in localised heavy rainfall events that exceed the design limits of the sewer system. This leads to overloading and backing up of the sewerage system and connecting pipes and even major surface flooding. In principle, it is possible to protect individual properties from flooding caused by surface runoff by means of manageable structural measures.

In accordance with the drainage regulations, each property must be protected against backwater of wastewater from the public sewer. For this purpose, suitable backwater protection devices must be installed in drainage points below the backwater level (usually the top edge of the road or ground where the public sewer is located).

Further information on the topics of heavy rainfall and backwater protection can be found here:

• Federal Ministry for the Environment
• State Ministry of the Environment
• Consumer advice centre NRW: Heavy rain flooding and backwater: How to prevent your house from flooding

Initial information on possible heavy rain hazards for individual properties can be found here:

• Heavy rain hazard information map

If you have any further questions, please contact the technical staff at Hochsauerlandwasser.