Sewer Backflow Preventer Program

The City's Utility group maintains the sanitary sewer and water mains throughout the system.  Services, the pipe connecting the public main to the building, are owned by the property owner that is being serviced. 

The City's Residential Backwater Valve Program is in place to aid residential property owners with the cost to install a backwater valve to prevent sewage backups during rainfall events. This program is for single family or duplex residential properties, and does not apply to commercial, industrial, non-residential, or residential properties with three or more units. Each property is only eligible under this program one time. The utilization of this program is subject to the following conditions:

• The property must be located in an area affected by wet weather events.
• Written documentation or statement describing the Wastewater Backup problem and any attempts made to correct the problem.
• Payment of a deductible in the amount of $400 is required. A payment plan option is available only if the property is owner occupied. The property owner is responsible for the $400 payment.
• A copy of the recorded deed must be submitted with the application.
• The property owner must be the person who signs the application applying for the Backwater Valve program.
• Outstanding water and wastewater utility debt of more than 30 days must be paid before this program can be utilized using the following criteria:
  • All water and wastewater utility debt on the property has to be paid.
  • All outstanding sewer charges need to be paid.
  • Water charges will be collected from the tenants, past and present.
• If there is no outside sewer cleanout, one will be installed as part of the program.
• Any existing clear water source connections to the sewer, such as downspouts, perimeter drains, driveway drains, etc. must be disconnected by the property owner to be eligible for the program.
• The property owner will be liable for maintenance of the backwater valve. The City will not warranty the work or be held liable for failure of the valve.
• The Backwater Valve program does not cover plumbing or sewer lines inside or outside the home.

Deeds may be obtained at:
Elkhart County Recorder’s Office
117 N. 2nd St., Goshen, IN 46526
574-535-6756