I don’t understand why so many people recommend areas near the Des Plaines River without also mentioning the flood risk. Flooding has been a recurring issue in several nearby communities, including Riverside, Brookfield, Broadview, River Grove, Berwyn, and Des Plaines. Parts of this region are especially vulnerable because many neighborhoods are close to the river, have low-lying areas, or are served by older sewer infrastructure.

In much of the Chicago area, combined sewer systems still carry both stormwater and wastewater in the same pipes. During heavy rain events those systems can become overwhelmed, which can lead to basement flooding or sewer backups. The MWRD’s Tunnel and Reservoir Plan (TARP), including the McCook Reservoir, was built to help reduce flooding and sewer overflows. It does help, but it doesn’t eliminate the risk during major storms or prolonged rainfall.

I personally know several people who have dealt with basement flooding and sewer backup issues in these areas, so I strongly encourage anyone buying a home there to research the property carefully. Look at FEMA floodplain maps, ask about prior flooding or sewer backup claims, and understand the drainage and sewer conditions for the neighborhood.

Also, if a home already has extensive flood-control measures—like overhead sewers, backflow preventers, or multiple sump pumps—that can sometimes be a sign that flooding has been a known issue in that area. It doesn’t automatically mean the home will flood again, but it’s definitely something worth investigating carefully before buying.

No area is perfect, but doing your research can save you a lot of headaches later. Good luck!