Basement Backup Help: SOAP
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- Basement Backup Help: SOAP
Fox Metro WRD is pleased to establish a sanitary Sewer Overhead Assistance Program (SOAP) to provide financial assistance to homeowners who desire to protect their home from flooding during a heavy rain event. Eligible homeowners may qualify for cost sharing reimbursement up to a maximum of $5,000 for installing an overhead sewer system. The purpose of this program is to protect basements from a sanitary sewer backup. Some modified overhead sewer designs may also qualify.
Checklist
In order to qualify for the SOAP, residents must fulfill the following minimum requirements:
- Reside in the Fox Metro WRD service area, own the residence, and have a either a partial or full basement
- Disconnect any perimeter drain tiles or any other source of storm water from the sanitary sewer
- Install a sump pit and sump pump as part of the program
- Complete the forms in the application packet
- Fulfill all requirements set forth in the application packet
For Residents Located in Incorporated Areas
Participate in the local community’s program. Most of our service communities offer a 50% cost share. Upon full approval and closeout of the program, Fox Metro will verify the participation and reimburse up to 15% of the cost.
For Residents Located in Unincorporated Areas (Boulder Hill, Blackberry Heights, etc.)
Fox Metro realizes that our residents located in the unincorporated areas are not eligible for a municipal program. Therefore, Fox Metro is offering up to a 65% cost share with a maximum of $5,000.
Permit Forms
FAQ
How do I know if I should participate?
Homeowners with previous basement backups are strongly encouraged to consider the SOAP. It is a way to make a nice home improvement, give you piece of mind during storm events, and receive some financial assistance for doing so!
What’s this program all about?
In a nutshell, residents are reconfiguring their existing sanitary sewer plumbing in their basements to a higher elevation.
Video link: Understanding Basement Backups
Video link: Sewer System Identification
Why is Fox Metro WRD offering this program?
Our goal is to protect the health, safety, and welfare of our rate payers by conveying wastewater away from homes to be safely treated here at the wastewater treatment plant. Sewage in a resident’s basement is unhealthy and a big mess! Disconnecting stormwater sources from the sanitary sewer also helps us gain capacity in the pipes and reduces the likelihood of basement backups.
How is this program funded?
We are primarily using late fees to fund the program. We want to put these funds back to good use by helping the community.
Is this a loan program? Do I have to pay the money back?
This is a grant program. It does not need to be paid back. Consult professional advice on tax implications.
My basement has already been retrofitted — am I eligible for reimbursement?
No. All applications must be permitted prior to the work being conducted and subsequent reimbursement.
For More Information
Please read over the application linked above. Should you have further questions, please contact our Engineering Department at 630-301-6882 or submittals@foxmetro.org
