Stormwater systems are easy to overlook until a problem occurs. Commercial property owners and facility managers should know to call a professional stormwater management company for routine maintenance so they can avoid having to call them for emergency repairs. With this guide, you can get a better understanding of why stormwater management matters and the most common warning signs that your stormwater system needs professional attention.
Why Is Stormwater Management Important for Commercial Properties?
Why is stormwater management important? Because every commercial property is legally responsible for any stormwater that falls on it. Federal, state and local regulations all require that runoff be managed to prevent pollution from gaining access to nearby waterways, defend infrastructure integrity and minimize the risk of flooding. In addition to ensuring regulatory compliance, having a well-maintained stormwater system can protect your property value, reduce liability and extend the operational life of your stormwater infrastructure. Avoiding maintenance does not make the problems go away; it only compounds them and turns small deficiencies into major expenses.
Common Signs You Need a Professional Stormwater Management Company
Although stormwater systems are meant to manage runoff without regular supervision, they still require routine inspection and maintenance to ensure functionality. There are some conditions that act as a clear sign that your system needs a professional inspection. If you are experiencing any of these problems, be sure to reach out to a stormwater management company immediately:
Standing Water or Recurring Flooding
Pooling water after a rain event that does not drain away within a reasonable time is one of the most prevalent signs of an issue with your stormwater system. This problem typically means that there is a blocked pipe, undersized or damaged inlet, failing pond outlet or loss of infiltration capacity. In addition to the inconvenience surrounding this problem, standing water also creates a slip-and-fall liability and can signal a drainage failure that could result in bigger issues if neglected.
Erosion Around Slopes, Ponds or Outfalls
Exposed soil, bare roots, rills and gullying around pond banks, slopes or discharge points can all indicate that your stormwater system is not properly controlling runoff velocity. Erosion from fast-moving water is progressive; it accelerates over time and undermines infrastructure, destabilizes banks and creates sediment loading violations. Our professional erosion control services can help stabilize the affected areas while preventing further losses.
Damaged or Sinking Catch Basins
Cracked frames, sunken grates, joint separation and visible settlement around catch basin structures are all common signals of structural defects and call for immediate professional attention. A compromised catch basin can stop water flow, create surface hazards and signal pipe failure underground. AQUALIS specializes in catch basin inspection and repair services and can resolve these issues swiftly and with minimal disruption.
Clogged Drains or Slow Drainage
If surface drains or inlets are backing up during moderate or light rain, accumulated debris or pipe blockages are likely limiting your system’s capacity. Clogged drains increase the risk of flooding during larger storms and can lead to permit violations if they are impeding discharge standards. Routine vactor cleaning and jetting are stormwater management solutions that are both cost-effective and efficient.
Sediment Buildup in Stormwater Ponds
Retention and detention ponds depend on adequate storage volume to function as intended. As time goes on, persistent sediment accumulation can reduce that capacity by a significant amount. If your pond appears to be shallower than before, has significant vegetation growth or is no longer draining correctly, there is a good chance it needs pond dredging or rehabilitation. AQUALIS provides comprehensive pond management services to bring stormwater ponds to full compliance.
Notices of Violation (NOV) or Failed Inspections
A Notice of Violation (NOV) is one of the most alarming signals that your stormwater system needs professional attention. The penalties for a stormwater violation escalate the longer they are neglected, which is why it is important to call AQUALIS to help you resolve active NOVs and non-compliance issues. We can also help you avoid further violations in the future.
Delivering Industry-Leading Nationwide Stormwater Services
AQUALIS is a full-service stormwater management company that serves industrial, commercial and municipal customers across the country. We deliver everything from preventative maintenance and annual inspections to emergency stormwater services and total infrastructure rehabilitation. When an urgent situation cannot wait to be addressed, contact our 24/7 emergency response team for the help you need. You can also request a consultation from a stormwater professional near you.
