Backup Assistance Program

Call SD1 at 859-578-7450 (option 1) to report a sewer emergency. Sewer emergencies may include issues such as backups, overland flooding, overflows and collapsed infrastructure. It’s important for customers to report all sewer emergencies to SD1 as soon as possible, so SD1 can investigate the cause. SD1 also considers customers’ reports when prioritizing improvement projects.

Backup Assistance

SD1’s Backup Assistance Program is designed to provide financial relief to property owners dealing with wet-weather sewer backups in their homes or businesses. 

The program provides up to $10,000 in assistance per approved property for the installation of a backflow preventer or similar backup solution. Through this program, a plumber can be reimbursed directly, meaning no out-of-pocket money is required of homeowners.

SD1 has partnered with the City of Covington on this program. Covington residents can find more information at https://www.covingtonky.gov/government/departments/public-works/storm-water-management. 

Program Eligibility

You may be eligible to participate if you meet all of the following conditions:

• Your property is located within SD1’s service area;
• Your property has experienced a wet-weather backup or is within an area where there is a known or verifiable (by SD1) capacity issue;
• Your private sewer lateral and indoor plumbing are in proper working condition and your property has no illegal connections to the sewer system;
• All storm connections must be removed. (This can be done upon installation of the backup solution).;
• Your SD1 accounts are up-to-date.

How to Apply

1. Apply Online. Complete the Application at https://forms.sd1.org/Forms/BackUpAssistanceAgreement.
2. Complete the Backup Assistance Agreement. Once SD1 confirms your eligibility, you will then need to contact a plumber and complete the necessary program forms provided in the approval email.
3. Oversee Installation. Once you have received confirmation of approval, you are responsible for overseeing the installation of the backup solution. Your plumber is responsible for obtaining all necessary permits and inspections.

If you have questions or are unable to apply online, call (859) 578-7450 and ask for the Backup Assistance Program Coordinator.

Sewage Backup Insurance

Did you know that if sewage backs up into your home, insurance does not generally cover damage and cleanup costs? In most cases, if a backup occurs, the homeowner is responsible for repair, cleanup and replacement costs. 

Most insurance companies offer optional backup coverage on homeowner policies to protect your home in the case of a backup. Contact your insurance provider for coverage premiums and deductibles.