5 Signs Your Stormwater System Needs an Upgrade (Before the Next Big Rain)

Stormwater systems tend to do their job quietly—until they don’t.

When designed and maintained properly, these systems protect properties, roadways, and infrastructure from the damaging effects of uncontrolled runoff. But when they begin to fail, the signs often appear subtly at first—standing water here, a bit of erosion there—before escalating into costly issues like site flooding, pavement damage, or compliance violations.

At Sanitary Construction, we’ve seen firsthand how proactive inspection and maintenance can prevent small problems from turning into major setbacks. If you’re responsible for a facility, development, or public infrastructure project, here are five clear signs that your stormwater system may be overdue for attention.

1. Standing Water That Just Won’t Quit

After a rainstorm, does water linger for hours—or even days? Persistent puddles aren’t just an eyesore. They signal that water isn’t draining as it should, which could point to clogged pipes, compacted soil, or failed grading. Beyond damaging turf and pavement, standing water can also become a breeding ground for pests and compromise nearby structures.

2. Erosion Around Outfalls or Swales

Erosion is one of the most visible red flags in a drainage system. If you’re seeing ruts forming near outfalls or channels, or noticing exposed aggregate and washed-out areas, it likely means water is moving through the system too quickly—or with too much force. The fix might be as simple as adding energy dissipation features, or as involved as reworking your detention setup, but either way, ignoring erosion only leads to bigger problems.

3. Overgrown or Neglected Detention Ponds

If your detention pond looks more like a forgotten nature preserve than a functioning drainage feature, it’s time for a closer look. Sediment buildup, invasive vegetation, and failing outlet structures can all limit capacity and impair flow control. Routine detention pond maintenance ensures these systems function as designed—especially when it matters most.

4. Frequent Flooding in Low Spots

Flooding that occurs during every significant rain event shouldn’t be accepted as normal. It’s usually a symptom of an undersized system, poor grading, or a failed component somewhere in the network. Whether it’s surface runoff pooling in the wrong places or water backing up through inlets, these issues rarely improve on their own.

5. Murky Permitting or Compliance Issues

If you’re running into trouble during inspections or having difficulty meeting local stormwater regulations, there may be more going on than paperwork. Many older systems no longer meet today’s standards—and enforcement is only getting stricter. A comprehensive inspection and targeted upgrades can help you stay compliant and avoid costly violations.

Don’t Wait for a Downpour

Stormwater problems don’t need a dramatic entrance to do serious damage. A proactive stormwater system inspection today could mean avoiding drainage repairs, regulatory headaches, and construction delays tomorrow. At Sanitary Construction, we specialize in long-term solutions—from detention pond maintenance to full system upgrades.

Let’s make sure your system is ready for the next storm.

Contact us today to schedule an inspection or site evaluation. We’ll help you stay dry, compliant, and confident—rain or shine.