Water damage & flooded basement help in Winnetka, IL

Who to call

• Blocked public storm drain: Public Works, 847-716-3568.
• Sewer backflow prevention reimbursement: Assistant Village Engineer, 847-716-3532 (per the Village's flood-protection brochure).
• Restoration help: (847) 000-0000, a free referral to an independent provider.

Partial reimbursement for backflow protection

The Village's flood-protection brochure says sanitary backflow can be prevented with a backflow prevention device, and that the Village has a partial reimbursement program with limited funding. When the Village Council reinstated the program in 2016, Patch reported it as 50% of costs up to $3,500 for anti-backup systems or $5,000 for overhead sewers. Confirm current amounts with Engineering.

What the Village has built

• Pump stations at Ash Street (2014) and Winnetka Avenue (2015) increased storm sewer drainage capacity by 50%, the Village says.
• Storm detention sewers were built or updated in several locations in 2013–14.
• A proposed Willow Road stormwater tunnel was set aside over cost concerns. The current plan uses detention at Duke Childs Field, behind Crow Island School and under the Park District's golf course.

Don't block the drainage

Winnetka's ordinances prohibit dumping into ditches, swales and streams. The Village notes that even grass clippings, mulch and branches can block drainage and push water onto neighboring properties.

Also useful

• Sewer backup guide
• Flooded basement guide
• Illinois insurance claim tips
• Check your FEMA flood zone

Other towns

• Highland Park
• Highwood
• Deerfield
• Lake Forest
• Lake Bluff
• Glencoe
• Wilmette
• Northbrook
• Glenview