Water runoff

The water in my subdivision is intended to be directed with the use of a swale toward a particular common area sewer; however, do to erosion & neglect the swale has directed runoff into my yard. We just spent $7000.00 in an attempt to cure the problem and it has helped to a certain extent. The problem persists when there is a heavy rain. In other words my yard will reasonably handle the run off from 5 yards but were having to deal with runoff from 10 homes. What are the remedies and where does the responsibility lie. Any help would;d be greatly appreciated.

Thanks so much,

Dan

Get someone to fix it correctly. The contractor obviously did not.

I would start with your local government Planning Department and they have engineers who might be able to review the issue and make recommendations. They also most likely may have information on who is responsible for maintaining or repairs.

This subject makes me scream, pull my hair out, and cry. It took me years not to nearly have a nervous breakdown when it rained in my HOA. It was a true nightmare. The reason? Rain is an ACT OF GOD. It is RUNOFF. The problem is that the problem is NOT considered a "Flooding" situation. If it was, then it would be determined to be in a flood plain and insurance offered as such. If you are NOT in a flood plain, then flood insurance is OPTIONAL. (Check your state laws)

If the area is COMMON area, the HOA may be responsible. That means that ALL expenses to pay for the repairs is on ALL the homeowners to pay for. So expect a special assessment to be passed to cover the costs. That is if you want the HOA to fix it. It's NOT going to be "free" for you or your neighbors if you take this approach.

Take the other advice if the area is NOT common property and owned by the HOA. Contact your county or city to address. However, get your board involved to let them know about the work to be done and the effect. They need to work with the city/county on this as well.

I'd suggest finding out if your in a flood plain or get put in one. We had some houses that were qualified because of the flooding issue. A bad ditch installed by the Corps caused the issue there. So they were able to get individual flood insurance and at a lower cost because of it. An option to consider.

Perhaps this will be helpful:

Maintaining Rain Gardens, Swales, and Stormwater Planters a field guide from Oregon State University

Thank you all for taking the time to reply. You've been very helpful. You've given me a lot to think about and do.

Regards,

Dan