How Do I Know If I Have a Sewage Catch Basin?

Sewer catch basins are grated boxes set into floors or into the ground. Some basins stand alone, while others connect to a drain pipe. The large grates you see on streets are often industrial catch basins connected to the public sewage system. The basin's primary purpose is to collect water runoff and drain it into the sewer system. The grate keeps some items from falling into the system but can become clogged with leaves and debris. In homes, a small box or container sits under the grate and collects water. You can look in various areas to see if basins are installed in or around your home.

Instructions

1. • 1

     Inspect various areas in your basement. Look for round or square metal or plastic grates set into the floor. These often cover basins.

   • 2

     Inspect your sump pump hole if you have a sump pump. You may need to clear away debris to see the basin drain in the bottom of the hole.

   • 3

     Look around the floor in your basement or ground level. Inspect your garage or shed floor, as sometimes a catch basin may be installed there.

   • 4

     Look around the outside of your house or building. To manage water runoff, catch basins may be installed around the building foundation. Look in driveways, pathways, and near the street curb for grates covering catch basins.