Basement Backup Reimbursement Program

Expedited Reimbursement Program for sewage backups

The Baltimore City Department of Public Works (DPW) has an Expedited Reimbursement Program for sewage backups caused by capacity-related wet weather events. 

The Program offers up to $5,000 reimbursement per dwelling unit, per event for reasonable, documented clean-up, disinfection and disposal services costs. 

Reimbursement is based on the eligibility requirements found in Appendix E of the Modified Consent Decree. Decisions on eligibility are issued within 60 days of receiving all your required information and documentation. 

Although not required, we encourage you to report the backup to the City as soon as possible after discovery by calling 311, or visit 311 online.

Program guidelines

The Expedited Reimbursement Program is offered for sewage damage caused by a capacity-related wet weather event. 

These capacity-related events happen when at least ¼ inch of rain is recorded within a 24-hour period. Stormwater runoff may be more than sewer capacity and sewers can back up or overflow. 

If there is light rain for 2-3 hours, moderate rain for 30-60 minutes or heavy rain for 15 minutes, it may be identified as a  wet weather event by the City. 

Apply for the Expedited Reimbursement Program

  • You must be a Baltimore City residential customer
  • The residential property owner, tenant or property manager must complete the application.
  • Applications must be received within 90 days after the backup.
  • If your property is insured against backups or similar events, you must receive a final determination from your insurance company for expenses to be considered eligible for reimbursement.

Ways to complete the application

Mail applications to: 
Baltimore City Department of Public Works
Bureau of Water and Wastewater
Abel Wolman Municipal Building
200 Holliday Street
Baltimore, MD 21202
Email: Reimbursement Department

Required documentation

You must provide copies of the following documentation with your application:

  • Documentation of all cleanup, disinfection, and disposal expenses related to the backup, including any insurance deductible paid.
  • Documentation provided to, and received from, your insurance company. Insurance documentation may be provided up to 30 days after receipt from your insurer.
  • If you are a tenant, you must provide a copy of your lease signed by the owner of record.
  • If you are filing an application on behalf of an owner or tenant, you must include written proof of power of attorney.

After your documentation is submitted

If your application is eligible, you will receive a Release for Signature.  Once the signed Release is received, your check will be processed.

Acceptance or denial of your application is not a determination of fault or liability.  Property damage and related claims are not eligible under the Program, but you may file a claim with the Baltimore City Law Department for those losses. You may file an application and a claim at the same time. You will only be reimbursed once for disinfection, cleanup and disposal costs.  

Please note that the Law Department makes all determinations of liability for sewage backup claims filed against the City.  You may also wish to discuss your options with an attorney who can advise you. The City does not give legal advice, and nothing in this document is intended as such.  

For information regarding the general liability claims process, please visit the Law Department. 

For information on the SOS (Sewage Onsite Support) Cleanup Program, please visit the SOS Cleanup Page.

Please note: Eligibility is limited to either the SOS Cleanup Program or the Expedited Reimbursement Program for Sewage Backups, but not both. 

Resources and tools

Questions or concerns?

We're here to help. Please call 311 or visit 311 online to connect with us.