Frequently Asked Questions

FAQ

Our Georgia Stormwater Services team answers some of the most common questions we receive about our services. Whether you’re a property manager, HOA, or municipality in Georgia, our team is here to help you manage stormwater systems efficiently and effectively.

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What does Georgia Stormwater Services do?

Georgia Stormwater Services specializes in stormwater management solutions for HOAs, property managers, municipalities, and commercial developments. Our services include (but are not limited to):

  • Lake dredging
  • Sediment removals
  • Stormwater inspections
  • Retention pond maintenance
  • Corrugated pipe repair
  • Erosion control
  • Trash or debris buildup removal
  • Slope stabilization and repair
  • Fencing or safety device repair
  • Headwall repair
  • Vegetation management
  • Mosquito control
  • Annual inspections and maintenance plans
  • Compliance and MS4 Certified inspections
Who are the customers of Georgia Stormwater Services?

Georgia Stormwater Services proudly serves a range of clients across the state of Georgia, including:

  • HOAs (Homeowners Associations): Helping neighborhoods maintain retention ponds, manage stormwater systems, and ensure compliance with local regulations.
  • POAs (Property Owners Associations): Providing tailored stormwater solutions for shared properties and private communities.
  • Property Management Companies: Assisting with stormwater inspections, repairs, and maintenance plans to keep commercial and residential properties compliant and functional.
  • GDOT (Georgia Department of Transportation): Supporting transportation projects with stormwater infrastructure maintenance and erosion control.
  • Government Agencies: Partnering with municipalities and local governments to address large-scale stormwater management needs.
  • Commercial Property Owners: Offering stormwater and retention pond services for businesses, industrial properties, and commercial developments.

Whether you manage a community, oversee commercial property, or operate within a government agency, Georgia Stormwater Services provides reliable, cost-effective stormwater solutions tailored to your needs.

Why hire Georgia Stormwater Services?
  • Experience: Our team has decades of experience managing stormwater systems across Georgia.
  • Certified Expertise: All our employees are certified by the Georgia Soil and Water Conservation Commission (GSWCC), ensuring every project is handled by knowledgeable professionals who meet the highest standards.
  • Fully Insured: We are fully insured, providing peace of mind to our clients by safeguarding their projects against unexpected issues.
  • No Subcontractors: Unlike many competitors, we never rely on subcontractors. Our in-house team manages every project from start to finish, ensuring consistent quality and accountability.
  • Owned Equipment: Georgia Stormwater Services owns all of our equipment, which allows us to provide faster service, lower costs, and better control over project timelines. This is a significant advantage compared to others in the industry who rely on rented equipment.
  • Compliance: We ensure all projects meet state and federal regulations.
  • Custom Solutions: We offer tailored maintenance plans to meet your property’s unique needs.
What repairs does Georgia Stormwater Services offer?

Georgia Stormwater Services specializes in a wide range of stormwater system and retention pond repairs to ensure your property remains safe, functional, and compliant. Our expert team provides tailored repair solutions for common stormwater challenges, including:

  • Slope Stabilization & Repair
    Addressing unstable slopes around retention ponds to prevent erosion and maintain shoreline integrity.
  • Erosion Repairs
    Repairing eroded areas along embankments, shorelines, and other stormwater infrastructure to prevent further soil loss and protect property structures.
  • Minor Concrete Repairs
    Restoring grout and concrete work around pipes, headwalls, and other stormwater components to ensure durability and water flow efficiency.
  • Sand Filter and Infiltration Trench Repairs
    Maintaining and repairing filtration systems to manage stormwater runoff effectively and support compliance with Georgia regulations.
  • Fencing and Safety Device Repairs
    Fixing damaged or aging safety fences and devices surrounding retention ponds to ensure safety and meet community standards.
  • Sediment Cleaning
    Removing excessive sediment from ponds, pipes, and stormwater systems to restore capacity and improve water quality.
  • Headwall Repairs
    Repairing headwalls to ensure proper water flow and structural stability in your stormwater infrastructure.
What is the value of stormwater maintenance?

Proper maintenance prevents flooding, protects property value, ensures regulatory compliance, and extends the lifespan of your stormwater infrastructure.

Why is dredging important for lakes and ponds?

Dredging removes built-up sediment, organic debris, and pollutants from the bottom of lakes and ponds. Over time, sediment reduces water depth, decreases water quality, and impacts aquatic ecosystems. Dredging restores pond capacity, prevents flooding, and improves water health.

When should I dredge my lake or pond in Georgia?

If you notice reduced water depth, algae blooms, foul odors, or poor drainage, it may be time to dredge. Scheduling dredging every 5–10 years, depending on sediment buildup, is essential for maintaining stormwater capacity and regulatory compliance.

What is the dredging process?

The process includes:

  1. Inspection and Assessment: We evaluate sediment levels and water quality.
  2. Permitting: We assist with permitting through governing bodies, ensuring all state and federal regulations are met.
  3. Dredging: Our team removes sediment and debris, restoring pond capacity.
  4. Post-Dredging Cleanup: Ensuring minimal disruption to surrounding areas.
Do I need a permit for dredging in Georgia?

Yes, dredging typically requires permits from the government and other local agencies. Georgia Stormwater Services manages the permitting process to ensure compliance with all regulations.

What is the purpose of a retention pond?

Retention ponds manage stormwater runoff, reducing flooding and improving water quality by allowing sediment and pollutants to settle before water is released downstream.

Who is responsible for maintaining a retention pond?

The responsibility often lies with property owners, HOAs, or municipalities. Proper maintenance is required by Georgia law to ensure compliance and prevent stormwater violations.

What maintenance is required for retention ponds?
  • Sediment and debris removal: Ensures proper water flow and capacity.
  • Vegetation management: Controls invasive plants and stabilizes shorelines.
  • Structure inspections: Ensures inlets, outlets, and embankments are functioning properly.
Why do corrugated pipes rust or fail?

Corrugated metal pipes can rust due to prolonged exposure to water, oxygen, and pollutants. Over time, corrosion weakens the pipe structure, leading to leaks, blockages, or collapses.

How long do corrugated pipes last?

The lifespan of corrugated pipes varies based on material, usage, and environmental factors, but they typically last 20–50 years. Regular inspections can extend their lifespan by identifying potential issues early.

What is the process for replacing corrugated pipes?
  1. Inspection: Identify damage, blockages, or corrosion.
  2. Permitting: Obtain necessary permits for replacement work.
  3. Pipe Replacement: Remove the damaged pipe and install a durable replacement.
  4. Site Restoration: Ensure minimal disruption to the surrounding area.
What is included in a stormwater inspection?

Our MS4 Certified inspection checklist includes (but is not limited to):

  1. Retention pond assessments: Check sediment levels, debris, and vegetation.
  2. Pipe evaluations: Inspect underground pipes for corrosion, leaks, or blockages.
  3. Erosion control: Assess shorelines and embankments for stability.
  4. Structural checks: Examine inlets, outlets, and other components for damage.
How often should I schedule stormwater inspections in Georgia?

We recommend annual inspections for most properties. High-usage areas or older systems may require biannual inspections to ensure compliance and prevent costly repairs.

Why is an annual stormwater maintenance plan important?

An annual maintenance plan ensures your stormwater system remains efficient year-round. It includes:

  • Scheduled inspections
  • Debris removal
  • Pipe and pond structure repairs
  • Compliance checks with Georgia stormwater regulations
What are the benefits of an annual stormwater maintenance plan?
  • Prevents costly emergency repairs.
  • Ensures regulatory compliance.
  • Keeps your property safe and functional.
Do you offer free stormwater inspections?

Georgia Stormwater Services offers free consultations for properties on regulations and violations, and we will advise the course of action from there.

Do I need dredging for my lake or pond?

If your lake or pond is experiencing shallow water, poor drainage, or excessive algae growth, dredging can restore its functionality and health.

How do I prevent erosion around my retention pond?

Erosion can be minimized by planting native vegetation, stabilizing shorelines with riprap, and ensuring proper stormwater flow to prevent overflow damage.

Can you help with stormwater inspections for my HOA or commercial property?

Yes, we provide both above-ground and underground stormwater inspections to identify issues and ensure compliance with Georgia’s stormwater regulations.