05/28/2026
Want to help keep stormwater out of you and your neighbor's basements? One of the simplest things homeowners can do is disconnect their downspouts from the sewer.
When heavy rain hits, water from our roofs can pour straight into the sewer system if your gutter directly connects. One house may not sound like much, but across a whole block, that water adds up fast. That can mean sewer backups, flooded basements, and more stress on our already overloaded infrastructure.
The good news is that Berwyn has a Residential Downspout Disconnection Assistance Program that can help homeowners with the cost! All you have to do is apply for the program, the Engineering Department will determine if you qualify, and then once you're approved. you can reroute your gutters and you'll get reimbursed for it!
For a basic downspout disconnection, the City may reimburse up to $25 per disconnected downspout, whether you are using elbows, splash pads, extensions, or a rain barrel with a connection kit. If your home needs a more complicated gutter rerouting, the reimbursement can be up to $300 per household. Homeowners who are 65 or older or disabled may also qualify for up to $100 in labor reimbursement for a simple disconnection, as long as it is approved ahead of time.
I’ll put the City’s program guidelines, application form, and contact information in the comments below. This isn't the only solution to flooding, but it's relatively simple and can make a real difference.
