Step 1. Report the Backup to MSD - If you have experienced a potential sewer backup and have not already done so, report it to MSD as soon as possible:

There are ONLY two ways to report a sewer backup:

• By calling (513) 352-4900
• By submitting an online report

Reporting a sewer backup is the first step in the process and is NOT the same thing as filing an SBU damage claim. Claims are a separate process - please see below.

 

If you submit a report online, you will receive a 5-digit Service Request Number. This number is confirmation your report has been received. You will not receive a confirmation email or phone call.

 

 

Step 2. MSD will investigate your report - Once you have submitted your report, MSD will send out a crew to investigate.

Crews are dispatched based on the order the report was received. During major rain events, this could take from several hours to several days.

 

MSD does not inventory or estimate property damages as part of our investigation.

 

Following the investigation, the crew may leave a Field Form at the property detailing next steps.

 

If your sewer backup was not caused by the MSD public sewer, you will not be eligible for the SBU Program. MSD does not cover sewer backups caused solely by private plumbing issues or overland flooding.

 

Learn more about our Sewer Backup Investigation

 

 

Step 3. Cleaning Services - If your property is eligible for free cleaning services from MSD, we will contact you by telephone.

If you hire your own professional restoration company, you may be reimbursed dependent on program eligibility. MSD does not reimburse for self cleanings.

 

Learn more about our Cleaning Services

 

 

Step 4. Damage Claims (After Cleaning Services) - MSD offers reimbursement for eligible damages dependent on program eligibility.

Before filing a claim, you must have reported your sewer backup to MSD.

 

You have two years from the date of your sewer backup to submit a completed claim.

 

Learn more about claims and how to submit a claim at Claims

 

 

 

 

 

Step 5. Sewer Backup Prevention Program - If you have experienced two or more sewer backups from the MSD public sewer system over a five-year period due to inadequate capacity, you may be eligible for the installation of a backup prevention device on your property at no cost.

There is no automatic approval for this program.

 

Please contact MSD at (513) 244-5100 or SBUPPCommunications@cincinnati-oh.gov to request a questionnaire to determine eligibility.

 

Learn more about our Prevention Program