A Georgia homeowner, Amanda Hammett, is frustrated with county officials for not maintaining storm drains, which she says has led to severe erosion on her property. This is the second time in three years that flooding has caused major damage to her home in DeKalb County.
Flooding Blocks Driveway
Hammett’s neighbor first noticed large pools of water blocking her driveway as she drove down the street. The flooding is so severe that Hammett cannot use her driveway at all. She claims that every time a waterline breaks in her neighborhood, this situation repeats itself.
History of Problems
Three years ago, a massive sinkhole formed outside Hammett’s home due to a similar waterline break. At the time, a local news crew from WSB-TV covered the story, and DeKalb County officials came to fix the issue. However, the problem has returned.
“This is round two,” Hammett said. “We’re very frustrated.”
Hammett’s plumber recently took photos of the water pipe, revealing that it was rusting and beginning to decay. The damage has only gotten worse, creating even more challenges for her.
Erosion Worsens Property Damage
After the first repair, water runoff started to erode Hammett’s yard, creating large craters. She and her neighbors believe that the county’s failure to maintain the drainage system is causing these repeated issues.
Her neighbor, Bob Gillespie, is also experiencing problems due to the erosion.
“I can look at my carport, and part of it is sinking in. The foundation is caving in,” Gillespie said.
He added, “Homeowners shouldn’t be responsible for fixing county storm drains. It’s ridiculous.”
Expensive Repairs
Fixing the damage has become an expensive burden. According to Angi, a home services company, driveway repairs cost between $2,700 and $14,500. Depending on the size and materials, the price could go as high as $20,000.
If the county does not step in to help, Hammett and her neighbors may have to cover all the costs themselves.
As of now, DeKalb County officials have not responded to requests for comments on the issue.
