Sump Pump in Kensington, MD

Why do older Kensington basements need pumps?

Kensington grew from a summer retreat into a commuter suburb, and its southern core is a planned Victorian-era layout listed as the Kensington Historic District. Houses of that age and the postwar homes around them often have foundations that let water seep in during heavy storms or snowmelt. Many owners have added a sump pit and pump to keep a finished basement dry. Original cast iron and clay drain lines are also common at this age, and a backup at a floor drain can come from those rather than the pump.

Who handles permits for pump work?

WSSC Water Permit Services issues plumbing, gasfitting and service connection permits for Kensington. The Town of Kensington has its own forms for home construction projects, fences and signs, so call Town Hall if a pump project grows into exterior drainage, grading or wall work. The 20895 mailing area, often called Greater Kensington, is much larger than the town itself; addresses outside the town limits deal with Montgomery County rather than the Town for building steps. A simple pump swap usually needs no permit, but ask the plumber.

What should I do when sewage backs up?

Stop using water in the house. If the backup comes from the public sewer, WSSC Water's emergency line for water or sewer problems is 301-206-4002. If only your house is affected, the clog is likely in your own lateral, and a plumber can clear and camera-inspect it. If your basement bathroom drains through an ejector pump, a failed ejector can look like a sewer backup, so mention it when you call.

Local note

Antique Row and the Victorian streets near the MARC station include homes with tight basements and low ceilings. That can make pump access harder and affect how long a replacement takes. Clearing a path to the pit before the plumber arrives helps. Heavy rain and snowmelt are when most Kensington pumps fail, so pour a bucket of water into the pit before spring and again before the summer storm season to make sure the float lifts and the motor starts. If the basement holds a water heater or furnace close to the floor, a battery backup or high-water alarm adds a margin of safety during power outages.