Storm drain cleaning and catch basin cleaning questions, answered.

Most commercial and municipal catch basins should be inspected at least annually and cleaned when sediment, debris, or standing water reduces capacity. High-traffic, wooded, industrial, or flood-prone sites may need semiannual or quarterly service.

Storm drain cleaning removes sediment, trash, leaves, grit, and other blockages from catch basins, inlets, sumps, and stormwater conveyance systems so runoff can move away from property during rain events.

Pricing depends on the number of structures, access, material volume, disposal requirements, location, and whether the work is scheduled or emergency service. StormVac Services provides quotes after reviewing the site and service scope.

Common causes include sediment buildup, leaves, trash, collapsed or restricted lines, undersized infrastructure, blocked grates, and catch basins that have not been maintained before seasonal storms.

An eductor truck uses water-assisted cleaning and vacuum recovery to loosen and remove sediment, debris, and sludge from storm drains, catch basins, manholes, and related infrastructure.

Many municipalities and stormwater permits require property owners or public agencies to maintain private and public stormwater systems. Requirements vary by jurisdiction, so documented preventive maintenance is often the safest approach.