Commercial Property Services
Catch basins collect surface water runoff and direct it into the storm sewer system. When they fail — whether from sediment buildup, structural damage, or clogged outlets — water backs up across paved surfaces.
Sediment accumulation is the primary maintenance issue. Dirt, sand used for winter traction, leaves, and debris settle in the basin sump below the outlet pipe. Annual cleaning prevents overflow conditions.
Industry Best Practices
Inspection of the basin structure itself reveals cracked precast walls, damaged grates, corroded frames, and failed joints. Structural deficiencies allow soil infiltration that destabilizes the surrounding pavement.
Outlet pipe condition affects basin function. Roots, sediment, and pipe joint offsets reduce flow capacity. Camera inspection of outlet pipes identifies problems invisible from the surface.
How D&D Commercial Services Can Help
Oil and fuel contamination from vehicle areas can reach storm systems through catch basins. Facilities with fuel dispensing, vehicle maintenance, or chemical storage may need separators that require independent maintenance.
Municipality may inspect catch basins on commercial properties under environmental or stormwater management bylaws. Non-compliance can result in orders requiring immediate remediation at property owner cost.
Schedule catch basin cleaning and inspection annually — ideally in fall after leaves are down but before freeze-up. Early morning cleaning minimizes disruption to property operations.