End of Hurricane Season Checklist: Storm Drains and Lift Stations in South Florida

The Atlantic hurricane season ends on November 30. For property managers, HOAs, restaurants and commercial buildings in South Florida, that is the best time to check storm drains and lift stations. Months of rain leave sand, leaves and grease in the system, and the dry season gives you a window to fix problems before the next wet season.

Use this checklist to make sure your property is ready.

Why Clean Up After Hurricane Season

Even without a direct hit, summer storms push sand, mulch, trash and debris into catch basins and drain lines. Lift stations collect wipes, grease and grit from every heavy-use day. If nobody removes it, the next big rain finds drains that are already half full.

Dry months also make the work easier: lower water levels, fewer emergency calls and less disruption for tenants and customers.

Storm Drain Checklist

• Look at every grate. Remove leaves, trash and mulch sitting on top of catch basins.
• Check for standing water. Puddles that stay hours after rain point to clogged lines or a full basin.
• Look inside the basins. If sand and debris are building up at the bottom, it is time for a pump-out.
• Jet the lines. High-pressure jetting clears sand and roots between basins.
• Inspect with a camera. A camera shows cracks, collapses or roots you can't see from the surface.
• Keep a record. Photos and service dates help with insurance claims and city inspections.

See our storm drain cleaning in Miami and storm drain maintenance services.

Lift Station Checklist

• Test the alarms. Make sure the high-water alarm sounds and reaches the right phone.
• Check the floats. Grease and debris can make floats stick, so pumps don't turn on or off.
• Listen to the pumps. Grinding, vibration or pumps that run nonstop are early signs of failure.
• Pump out the wet well. Remove sludge, grease, wipes and sand that build up at the bottom.
• Check the control panel. Look for corrosion, water inside the panel and tripped breakers after storms.
• Plan regular service. We recommend lift station pump-out and maintenance every 3 months.

Learn more about our lift station services in Miami.

Signs You Need Service Now

• Sewage odors near the wet well or drains
• Lift station alarms going off more often
• Water pooling in parking lots after normal rain
• Gurgling drains or slow toilets across the building

When to Call On My Way Septic

Our crews clean storm drains and lift stations for condos, HOAs, restaurants, plazas and commercial buildings across Miami-Dade and Broward. We have 24/7 emergency service with 5,000-gallon vacuum trucks. Call 786-252-4029 to schedule your post-season cleaning.

Frequently Asked Questions

How often should storm drains be cleaned?

Most commercial properties need it at least once a year. Properties with heavy sand, trees or flooding may need it more often.

How often should a lift station be serviced?

We recommend pump-out and maintenance every 3 months. High-use properties may need more frequent service.

Is the dry season a good time for drain work?

Yes. Lower water levels and fewer storms make cleaning, jetting and inspections faster and easier to schedule.