Not recommended for typical DIY. This project requires specialized plumbing knowledge, potential excavation equipment, structural considerations, and strict adherence to complex code requirements. Professional licensed plumbers are strongly advised.
Installation requires adherence to specific plumbing codes, potential excavation through concrete and soil, and integration with existing sewer systems, making it a moderate complexity project. Requires licensed professionals.
Project Guidelines & Rules
Permitting & Pre-Construction Requirements
4 Rules
Obtain all necessary permits from your local building department prior to commencement of work.
IL Plumbing Code 106.1, Local Ordinances
All plumbing work shall be performed by a licensed plumber or under the direct supervision of a licensed plumber.
IL Plumbing Code 3.1
Prior to any excavation, all underground utilities must be located and marked (e.g., by contacting JULIE at 811).
Illinois Utility Damage Prevention Act
Site plans and proposed work details may be required by your local municipality for permit approval.
IL Plumbing Code 106.3, Local Ordinances
Backwater Valve Selection & Location
4 Rules
Backwater valves shall be of an approved type and listed for the intended application (e.g., sewage or clear water).
IL Plumbing Code 710.3
The backwater valve shall be installed on the building drain or building sewer, upstream of all fixtures that are to be protected.
IL Plumbing Code 710.2
Backwater valves shall not be installed on the discharge pipe from sump pumps or ejectors unless specifically designed for that purpose and approved.
IL Plumbing Code 710.1 Exception 2
The backwater valve and its operating mechanisms shall be readily accessible for inspection, cleaning, and maintenance.
IL Plumbing Code 710.2
Underground Installation & Pipework
5 Rules
All piping subject to freezing temperatures, including portions of the building sewer and building drain, shall be protected. This includes maintaining a minimum burial depth of 42 inches below grade in DuPage County.
IL Plumbing Code 305.4, DuPage County Regional Standard
Pipe materials and fittings shall conform to Chapter 7 of the Illinois Plumbing Code for sanitary drainage systems.
IL Plumbing Code Chapter 7
Joints and connections shall be made gas-tight and watertight using approved methods and materials.
IL Plumbing Code 705.0
Horizontal drainage piping shall be installed with a uniform slope. Minimum slopes are 1/4 inch per foot for 2-1/2 inch pipe or less, and 1/8 inch per foot for 3 inch to 6 inch pipe.
IL Plumbing Code 704.0
Excavation and backfill shall be performed in a manner that protects the piping from damage, settlement, or imposed loads. Adequate compaction of backfill material is required.
IL Plumbing Code 306.0, 2024 IRC P3005.4
Electrical Components (if applicable)
4 Rules
All electrical work associated with motorized backwater valves or associated pumps shall comply with the 2023 National Electrical Code.
2023 NEC, Local Adoption
Dedicated branch circuits shall be provided for motorized backwater valves or associated pumps, as required.
2023 NEC 210.23, 430.24
Wiring methods, enclosures, and equipment installed in wet or damp locations (e.g., basements, crawl spaces) shall be rated and installed to prevent water penetration and corrosion.
2023 NEC 300.5, 300.9, 430.11
Ground-fault circuit-interrupter (GFCI) protection shall be provided for all 125-volt, single-phase, 15- and 20-ampere receptacles located in basements, crawl spaces, garages, and outdoors.
2023 NEC 210.8
Inspections & Testing
3 Rules
A rough-in plumbing inspection shall be conducted by your local building department prior to any piping being concealed by backfill, concrete, or other building materials.
IL Plumbing Code 107.3.1
The entire drain, waste, and vent (DWV) system, including the newly installed backwater valve, shall be tested with a water test (minimum 10-foot head of water) or an air test (minimum 5 psi) for a specified duration as required by the inspector.
IL Plumbing Code 107.5.1, 107.5.2
A final plumbing inspection shall be conducted after the entire plumbing system is complete, fixtures are set, and the system is in operation.
IL Plumbing Code 107.3.4
Safety & Site Management
3 Rules
All excavations 5 feet or deeper shall be protected by shoring, sloping, or other approved means to prevent cave-ins, in accordance with OSHA standards.
OSHA 1926 Subpart P, Industry Best Practice
Adequate barricades, warnings, and site security shall be maintained around excavation sites to prevent unauthorized access and protect the public.
Common Construction Safety Practices
All work shall be performed in a safe manner, adhering to all applicable federal, state, and local safety regulations.
OSHA Standards, General Construction Safety
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