Everett to pay homeowners for flooding



The City of Everett is promising to pay for damage claims from homes and businesses due to flooding during recent heavy rain storms. Sewage backed up into some homes- a problem neighbors have complained about before.

Mayor Ray Stephanson and the Everett City Council announced the city will resolve all reasonable claims stemming from storms on Aug. 29 and Sept. 6. So far, the city has received 45 claims and has investigated 37 sites affected by the heavy rains, according to a news release. Property owners who experienced sewer backups are encouraged to file claims as soon as possible, even if they have not yet tallied the damage.

“Our staff is looking into every claim to assess the damage and investigate the cause of the backup,” said Dave Davis, public works director, in the release.
Some flood victims have been through this before, and have asked the city to separate sewer and storm water lines. The city says that would cost hundreds of millions of dollars and cause utility rates to skyrocket.

The city is recommending that homes and businesses affected by flooding be thoroughly cleaned and disinfected by a professional. Homeowners or businesses wishing to file a claim can call (425) 257-8610 or fill out an online form here.
Read more about the city's claims process  here.