Higher Risk for Older Homes
While newer homes don’t face as much concern regarding their sewer lines, the same cannot be said for older homes. It is common to see sewer line breaks under roadways, which can result in sinkholes. This indicates that pipes wear out over time. Recently, a notice was received from a company offering insurance for sewer lines connected to the street. This, in turn, signals a market for sewer line replacements, with insurance companies recognizing the need.
Misconceptions Regarding Liability
Some homeowners mistakenly believe that the sewer pipe connected to the street is the city’s responsibility. However, the property owner is liable for the lateral sewer pipe connected to the city sewer main. Furthermore, this responsibility applies even if the pipe extends beyond the property line or falls within an easement.
Material Composition of Sewer Line Lateral
Lateral sewer lines, also known as sewer laterals, are typically constructed using materials such as PVC (polyvinyl chloride), cast iron, or clay. The choice of material depends on various factors, including local building codes, soil conditions, the size of the lateral line, and the expected traffic load.
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The Most Common Material is PVC
Many contractors widely use PVC for lateral lines because of its lightweight nature, ease of installation, and resistance to corrosion and root intrusion. Cast iron is another popular choice as it is durable and long-lasting, although it is heavier and more expensive than PVC. Due to their susceptibility to cracking and breaking, homeowners are replacing clay pipes with more reliable pipes.
Know Your Building Codes and Regulations
Local building codes and regulations also influence the selection of materials for sewer laterals. Certain areas may require specific materials to ensure the sewer laterals meet safety and durability standards. Thus, consult a licensed plumbing contractor or building inspector to determine the appropriate material for your lateral line.
Responsibility for Breaks Beyond the Property Line
In the event of a leaking sewer line, a licensed plumbing contractor can inspect the sewer main for breaks or cracks using a video camera inserted into the pipe. The homeowner is responsible for repairing the sewer Line lateral if the broken pipe is between the house and the property line. However, if the compromised pipe extends beyond the property line, the homeowner should contact the City’s Sewer Emergency Line. Most inspections take place shortly after the call, although it may take up to 24 hours.
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The Importance of Lateral Sewer Line Maintenance
When purchasing a home, have the sewer line lateral inspected by a licensed plumbing contractor. According to the City of San Diego, root intrusion and cooking grease are the leading causes of sewer spills in both public and private systems. The property owner is responsible for maintaining the lateral sewer line. Keeping it clean and free from obstructions can save significant money in the long run.
Methods for Addressing a Broken Lateral Sewer Line
The most suitable method for repairing a broken sewer line depends on several factors, including the location and extent of the damage, the age of the pipes, and the soil conditions in that area. Here are some common methods used for repairing a broken sewer line:
Pipelining
This method inserts a liner coated with resin into the damaged pipe and inflates it to create a new, seamless pipe within the old one. Once the resin cures, the liner hardens, forming a durable new pipe that lasts for several decades.
Pipe bursting
This method entails breaking the damaged pipe apart and pulling a new pipe through the space created by the old one. Either PVC or HDPE (high-density polyethylene) is the old pipe replacement.
Excavation
In some cases, the only viable solution for repairing a broken sewer line is to excavate and replace the damaged section. While this method is more invasive and expensive compared to others, it may be necessary, especially for extensive damage or deteriorated pipes.
Spot repair
This procedure involves fixing small sections of a damaged pipe, such as cracks or holes. It entails cutting out the damaged section and replacing it with a new pipe segment.
We recommend consulting with a sewer repair specialist or licensed plumbing contractor to determine the best method for repairs. They can assess the damage and recommend the most suitable and cost-effective solution.
Professionals Know Best Practices
In conclusion, the property owner is liable for a broken lateral sewer line. Proper installation and maintenance of your sewer line lateral are important to avoid costly repairs and environmental hazards. Consulting with professionals and following best practices for sewer line maintenance is essential. Furthermore, these steps can help ensure the smooth functioning of the lateral sewer line and prevent potential issues. We recommend consulting with a sewer repair specialist or licensed plumbing contractor to determine the best method for repairing a broken sewer line in your specific situation. New pipes made of materials like PVC or HDPE (high-density polyethylene) because they resist corrosion and root intrusion.
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Common methods used for repairing a broken sewer line:
A completed inspection could start shortly after the call, although it may take up to 24 hours in some cases. Old sewer line laterals typically used materials like cast iron or clay. In older homes, homeowners are replacing them with more reliable pipes, such as PVC or high-density polyethylene (HDPE), as mentioned above.
Understanding a Vital Part of Your Home’s Plumbing
If you’ve ever experienced a sewer backup, slow-draining fixtures, or soggy patches in your yard, you might already be familiar with the term sewer lateral. But what exactly is it, and why should homeowners in Murrieta, Temecula, Menifee, and surrounding Inland Empire cities be concerned with its maintenance? Older homes, especially those that have experienced sewer line damage in the past or those that experience recurring clogs, should have their sewer lines inspected with a camera every couple of years as part of their sewer line maintenance.
Why It Matters More in Older Homes
Homeowners in Lake Elsinore, French Valley, and Wildomar should pay special attention if their home was built before the 1980s. Sewer laterals in older homes made of clay or cast iron are prone to cracking, corrosion, or root intrusion over time. It’s not uncommon to see sewer line collapses under roads, which can lead to sinkholes or require municipal repairs. The wear and tear from decades of use often leads to gradual failure.
Final Thoughts: Protect Your Property with Proactive Sewer Care
Your sewer line lateral is one of the most critical but overlooked parts of your plumbing system. A little prevention can go a long way. Don’t wait for a backup or yard flooding to take action. Whether you’re in Temecula, Murrieta, Menifee, or any neighboring city in Riverside County, MVP Plumbers is your go-to team for sewer lateral inspections, maintenance, and repairs. We equip our team with the latest trenchless technology to get the job done quickly and affordably. MVP Plumbing, your top-notch licensed, experienced plumber for the Inland Empire.
Need a Sewer Line Inspection or Repair?
Call MVP Plumbers today for a camera inspection or a free consultation. We proudly serve Murrieta, Temecula, Wildomar, Menifee, French Valley, Winchester, Canyon Lake, and Lake Elsinore.
