Michigan Basements: Sump Pump Discharge, Backup and Maintenance

Many Michigan basements depend on a sump pump. This guide summarizes what the state environment agency (EGLE), the state flood page and one city (Ann Arbor) say, and how to prepare for talking to a supplier.

Where can the pump discharge?

Michigan EGLE's sump pump discharge guidance describes two options.

Option 1: onto the ground (preferred). Water can be released onto the ground where it can soak in. EGLE says to avoid runoff that affects neighboring properties or causes erosion or ponding. If basement floor drains connect to the sump pump, make sure pollutants or spilled materials from the basement do not reach the ground. The guidance says the homeowner would be responsible for any resulting contamination.

Option 2: storm sewer or surface water. Water can go to the ground near a storm sewer catch basin, or connect directly to the storm sewer. A storm sewer connection needs permission from its owner or operator, such as a city, county road commission or county drain commissioner. EGLE does not recommend direct discharge to lakes, rivers, streams or wetlands, because sump water can carry pollutants from spills or basement flooding. The owner must comply with pollutant discharge laws and takes on liability for a direct connection.

Not allowed: floor drain discharges are not authorized to storm sewers or surface waters, even though sump pump discharges to them may be allowed.

EGLE lists these contacts: Groundwater Discharge Permit Program, 517-284-5570; NPDES Permit Section for surface water discharges, 517-284-9607. Your city or township may have additional rules, which are Not verified: here.

Backup power and valves

The state's flood page suggests, before a flood, to install check valves and consider a sump pump with a battery backup, and to buy or renew flood insurance. It states that homeowner's insurance policies do not cover flooding and that a new policy can take up to 30 days to take effect. This is general information, not insurance advice.

An example from Ann Arbor

The City of Ann Arbor's page says that water-powered backup systems use RPZ backflow prevention valves, which a licensed, certified plumber must test, and that the City inspects them every 3 years. This is an Ann Arbor requirement; Not verified: for other communities. The city advises hiring a plumber or handyman for pump replacement, repair and semi-annual maintenance checks. It also separates two problems:

Sanitary sewage backup: gray, odorous water, often from a floor drain.
Basement flooding: typically clear, odorless water from storms, snowmelt, groundwater or poor yard drainage.

Ann Arbor asks residents to report both to the city. If you live elsewhere, call your own municipality. Sewage backup is a health hazard; do not handle it yourself.

Safety after a flood

The state page advises: return home only when authorities say it is safe; do not touch electrical equipment if it is wet or if you are standing in water; run generators and gasoline-powered equipment only outdoors and away from windows; wear heavy gloves, protective clothing and boots; people with asthma, lung conditions or weakened immune systems should not enter buildings with water leaks or mold.

Questions for a sump pump supplier or plumber

Where will my discharge go, and does my municipality allow it?
Is a floor drain connected to my sump?
Should I choose a battery backup, water-powered backup or both? What are the limits of each? Ask for the manufacturer's data.
How often should the pump be tested and when should it be replaced?
Is a check valve needed on my line?
Who services it, and what does the warranty cover?

Not verified: pump sizing, replacement intervals and typical Michigan rainfall or groundwater figures.

Common mistakes

Pointing the discharge at a neighbor's yard or onto a sidewalk.
Connecting a floor drain to a sump that discharges to a storm sewer.
Never testing the pump or the backup.
Treating sewage backup like clean seepage.
Assuming homeowner insurance covers flooding.

What this guide does not cover

Plumbing codes, permits and local ordinances were not verified. Contact your municipality.

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General information only. Not legal, insurance or engineering advice. Have a licensed plumber and electrician confirm any installation and local rules.