2 minute read
Bradenton residents are facing a growing problem as aging sewer infrastructure, storm damage, and system failures cause sewage backups to flood homes and apartments. When these failures occur, raw sewage flows back through toilets, showers, and drains, destroying property and creating serious health risks.
In 2024 alone, millions of gallons of untreated or partially treated sewage spilled into the Manatee River, including a major release triggered by Tropical Storm Debby . Subsequent storms, such as Hurricane Milton, caused additional discharges totaling over 130 million gallons into local waterways . Beyond environmental damage, these events increase the risk of sewage backups inside homes. Contaminated water quickly ruins flooring, drywall, furniture, and personal belongings, while mold and bacteria pose long-term health threats .
These challenges follow a difficult hurricane season that stressed the system, leading to multiple spills and infrastructure failures
Your Legal Rights After a Sewage Backup
Bradenton homeowners and renters impacted by sewage backups may be entitled to compensation. Under Florida Statute § 768.28, residents can pursue claims for up to $200,000 per person and $300,000 per incident when government negligence contributes to property damage or health risks .
The city’s wastewater system continues to struggle, prompting warnings from the Florida Department of Environmental Protection about public health threats. Despite this, officials often push back on claims or delay the recovery process.
Contact Us
If you live in Bradenton and have suffered health issues, property damage, or other losses due to sewage backups, The Michael Brady Lynch Firm is here to help. Call The Michael Brady Lynch Firm today at 888-858-5970 for a free consultation.
Date: June 23, 2025
Attorney and Editor-in-Chief: Brandon Salter
Editor: Madison Hurley
Citations:
https://www.bradenton.com/news/local/article294264464.html
https://www.bradenton.com/news/local/article286231645.html
https://www.bradenton.com/news/local/article298645443.html
https://www.heraldtribune.com/story/news/local/manatee/2024/09/13/florida-dep-sends-warning-over-ongoing-bradenton-sewage-releases/75193580007/
https://www.sciencedirect.com/science/article/abs/pii/S0013935121009038?utm_source=chatgpt.com
https://www.bradenton.com/news/local/article286231645.html
https://thebradentontimes.com/stories/city-of-bradenton-faces-wastewater-challenges-following-last-years-hurricanes,123596