A: The goal of the project is to ensure no sump pumps are discharging into the sanitary sewer system. The discharge of sump pump water into the sanitary sewer system is a violation of the City’s Sanitary Sewer Ordinance.

Q: I don’t have a sump pump. Do I still need to have an inspection?

A: All homes and businesses need to be inspected whether or not there is a sump pump or sump pump pit.

Q: How does the inspection work?

A: Inspectors will look at connections in basements to ensure that existing sump pumps and sump pump pits are properly connected. Those connections should be made with rigid PVC-type pipe, not flexible hoses. The inspector will also survey the outside of the property to look for any downspouts connecting to the sanitary sewer. Homes with a correctly installed system will be issued a “passed inspection” document. If you receive a “failed inspection,” you will have 14 days to correct the deficiency and obtain a “passed inspection.”

Q: When is the inspection?

A: The inspectors will work weekdays 11:00AM to 1:00PM and 4:00PM to 8:00PM. The average inspection will take between 5-15 minutes. The inspectors will begin by going door to door. These door-to-door inspections are the quickest and most cost-effective way to inspect a large number of homes in a short time.

Q: What if I’m not home?

A: If you are not home when an inspector arrives, or if it is not convenient for you to allow the inspection at that time, a door hanger notice will be left with a website to visit to book an appointment. You will have 14 days after the date  of the notification to schedule and complete the inspection. If the 14 days expire without an inspection, the City may impose a surcharge on your utility bill.

Q: What if I don’t want the city to inspect my sump pump?

A: If you prefer to not allow the inspector into your house you may, at your cost, hire a licensed plumber  to inspect the sump pump and sign the required form. This form may be obtained by sending a self-addressed stamped envelope to: Bolton & Menk, Inc., attn: Kelsey Waltz, 2040 Highway 12 East, Willmar, MN 56201. This form must be returned within 14 days of requesting the form.

Q: Who can I contact with questions?

A: Kelsey Waltz, P.E., Project Engineer, (320) 905-6301, kelsey.waltz@bolton-menk.com