To show you how offbeat I got I even tried sending them a box of matches labeled "foreclosure stoppage kit" warning: use of this kit could put you in jail, call me instead at xxx-xxxx for other options.

Of course it was grease and tampons causing the stoppage, which is strictly prohibited by our lease with all residents.

Initials: _______b.Tenant agrees to pay for clearing the sewer drains of the Premises of any and all stoppages, except for those stoppages which the Landlord will agree were caused by defective plumbing, tree roots, acts of nature, or which are declared in writing to have been so caused by the plumber or other person who is called to clear the stoppage.

You shall be responsible for the cleaning or repair of any plumbing fixture where a stoppage has occurred." 

Well if it's the city main/storm issue then there is no stoppage to get rid of....takes care of that idea....Try an Automatic Backwater Valve, I found this online: https://www.balkanplumbing.com...

Contractor has labor and supply issues due to short staff and supply chain stoppage.

Mine has a clause that reads: "Tenant shall be charged for repair of drain blockages or stoppages, unless caused by defective plumbing parts or tree roots invading sewer lines."

Those tend to be most affected by shorter term shockwaves and stoppages like this.

Time from closing to rent depends on extent of renovations, how quickly your GC can start and how many jobs they have going on (i.e. is there stoppage of work at your job due to other jobs they are doing), and timing for permits and inspections. 

Unfortunately with the work stoppage in the city, I am In a bit of a holding pattern with surveys and zoning plans moving forward.