2 minute read
Jacksonville residents are increasingly facing the costly and dangerous reality of sewage backups flooding homes, apartments, schools, and businesses [1]. Aging sewer lines, system failures, and improper waste disposal are overwhelming the city’s infrastructure, causing raw sewage to flow back into homes and buildings through toilets, showers, and drains [2].
In 2024 alone, the Jacksonville Electric Authority (JEA) responded to more than 2,400 sewage backup reports, many linked to clogged pipes, grease buildup, and deteriorating infrastructure [3]. Heavy rains in September 2024 triggered at least 12 additional sewer overflows, with thousands of gallons of raw sewage contaminating properties, streets, and storm drains. [4]
When these failures occur, sewage backups flood homes with contaminated water that destroys flooring, drywall, appliances, and personal belongings. The lingering presence of bacteria and mold creates long-term health hazards for families, especially children, seniors, and those with compromised immune systems.
Health & Property Risks
When sewage backs up into a home or building, contaminated water destroys flooring, drywall, appliances, and personal possessions in minutes. Mold and bacteria spread quickly, making living conditions unsafe and requiring costly remediation. Vulnerable groups face serious health risks, including respiratory infections and gastrointestinal illness [5].
You Have Rights After a Sewage Backup
Jacksonville homeowners and renters affected by sewage backups may be entitled to compensation. Under Florida Statute § 768.28, residents can seek up to $200,000 per person and $300,000 per incident for property damage, health impacts, and other losses caused by government or utility negligence [6]. Cities and utilities, however, often delay, deny, or downplay responsibility.
Contact Us
If you have suffered health issues, property damage, or other losses due to sewage spills or contamination, The Michael Brady Lynch Firm is here to help. Call The Michael Brady Lynch Firm today at 888-858-5970 for a free consultation.
Date: July 12, 2025
Attorney and Editor-in-Chief: Brandon Salter
Editor: Madison Hurley
Citations:
[1] https://www.news4jax.com/news/local/2024/09/10/its-emotional-the-jacksonville-school-for-autism-is-picking-up-the-pieces-after-a-sewage-backup-flooded-their-campus/
[2] https://www.firstcoastnews.com/article/news/local/jacksonville-school-autism-closed-wastewater-floods-inside-southside-jea/77-173e09cd-4644-41fb-9595-34b739a510f6?utm_source=chatgpt.com
[3] https://www.jea.com/about/media_relations/2024_11_26_jea_encourages_customers_to_help_fight_fatbergs_this_thanksgiving/
[4] https://jaxtoday.org/2024/09/18/12-sewer-backups-due-to-heavy-rain-this-month-that-overwhelmed-jeas-system/
[5] https://www.sciencedirect.com/science/article/abs/pii/S0013935121009038?utm_source=chatgpt.com
