Atlantic hurricane season runs from June 1 to November 30, and South Florida homeowners and property managers spend months each year watching the forecast. Storm prep usually focuses on shutters, generators, and supplies — but plumbing deserves a place on the list, too. Heavy rain, flooding, power outages, and stressed municipal systems can all lead to backups, leaks, and water damage.
Before Hurricane Season
- Find and test your main water shut-off valve, and make sure everyone in the home knows where it is
- Have slow drains and sewer lines cleaned before the rainy season, so the system has room to handle heavy rain
- Clear gutters, downspouts, and yard drains so water flows away from the building
- Have older sewer lines checked with a camera if you've had backups in past storms
- Check that your water heater's drain pan and pressure relief valve are in good shape
- For irrigation systems, make sure your backflow preventer has passed its annual test
When a Storm Is Coming
- Fill clean containers with drinking water, and fill bathtubs with water for flushing toilets if water service is interrupted
- Know how to shut off the water and the water heater if you need to leave
- Bring in or secure loose items near outdoor plumbing, pool equipment, and AC lines
- If you have a generator, never connect it to your home's wiring without a proper transfer switch
Condo and apartment residents
Many buildings depend on electric pumps and sewage lift stations. During a long power outage, use water sparingly and avoid running dishwashers and washing machines, so the building's system isn't overloaded.
During a Power Outage
In many South Florida communities, sewage is moved by lift stations that run on electricity. If neighborhood lift stations lose power, the system can back up. Keep water use to a minimum until power is restored, and watch floor drains and lower-level toilets for any sign of backup.
After the Storm
- Follow any boil-water notice from your water utility until it is lifted
- Look for new leaks: water stains, wet spots on walls or ceilings, and puddles around the water heater
- Watch for sewage backup — gurgling drains, sewage smell, or water coming up through floor drains or the lowest toilets
- If floodwater reached your water heater or its controls, have it checked before turning it back on
- Run water briefly through all faucets once service is restored to clear air and sediment from the lines
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If Sewage Backs Up Into Your Home
Stop using all water in the building — every flush and every drain adds to the backup. Keep people and pets away from the affected area, since sewage carries bacteria. Don't try to clear a main line backup with chemicals. A plumber can clear the line, find out whether the problem is in your line or the public system, and recommend whether a backwater (check) valve makes sense for your property.
For Property Managers
Before the season, schedule drain and main line cleaning for buildings with a history of backups, confirm backflow testing is current, make sure maintenance staff know every shut-off and riser location, and keep your emergency plumber's number posted. After a storm, a quick walk-through of common areas, mechanical rooms, and lower floors catches problems early.
Frequently Asked Questions
Many homeowners choose to shut off the main water valve before leaving, so a broken pipe doesn't flood the home while it's empty. Turn off the water heater as well. When you return, turn the water on first, check for leaks, then turn the water heater back on once the tank is full.
Yes. Flooding, overwhelmed sewer systems, and lift stations without power can all push sewage back toward homes and buildings. Reducing water use during outages and having a backwater valve on your sewer line where appropriate both help protect your property.