Guide to Stormwater Inspections

What To Expect During a Stormwater Inspection?

Stormwater runoff, or extra water that flows over the ground, occurs when heavy rain collects on impervious surfaces (such as rooftops, driveways, and parking lots) that don’t allow the water to seep into the ground or follow a natural path to larger waterways. This inevitably causes problems like flooding, erosion, and habitat degradation.

That’s why it’s imperative to conduct regular stormwater inspections. By proactively identifying vulnerable areas and ensuring drain protection products are in working condition, you’ll ensure proper compliance and prevention of serious problems.

What Do Inspections Include?

For routine inspections carried out monthly, weekly, or even daily to make sure the system is working in accordance with your Stormwater Pollution Prevention Plan, facilities typically follow a checklist that contains:

• Date and time of inspection
• Information on who is performing the inspection
• Controls that require replacement or repair
• Compliance and noncompliance documentation
• Weather conditions at the time of inspection

In addition to routine inspections, facilities need quarterly inspections to ensure stormwater mitigation meets the standards set in the permit. Quarterly inspections include visual checks on outflow areas and obtaining stormwater samples from multiple points for analysis.

At least once a year, facilities need a comprehensive inspection of the premises from a certified inspector. These inspections require:

• Observing storm drains and any other area the permit covers
• Documenting all materials that may have been touched by stormwater
• Summarizing data from routine inspections
• Noting spills or leaks
• Documenting control measures

What Happens After the Inspection?

The inspector will note any repairs or maintenance required to keep the permit valid. Completing these is imperative to continue operating and avoiding costly fines.

Remember, while some aspects of maintaining stormwater management systems may be DIY-able, in many cases, attempting your own inspections exposes you to additional liability without offering the improvements or insight you’ll see with proper preventive maintenance services. If there are aspects of your system that need to be maintained between professional sessions, iSTORMWATER can help you identify these and explain them to you.

Stormwater Services in the DMV

Inspection requirements for stormwater management systems are complex, but iSTORMWATER can ensure your facility stays compliant and protected.

Call us at (443) 699-2828 or contact us online to schedule your stormwater inspection today.