Fixing and replacing sewer lines is a plumbing nightmare that is tedious and expensive. Of course, homeowners are responsible for their own plumbing, such as a clogged drain in a sink. But what about sewer problems behind the property line? In some cases, the city or county is responsible for the repairs, and in others, the responsibility rests with the homeowner.
Homeowner vs. City Responsibility
Sewer backup often comes at a high cost, which homeowners prefer the city to pay for. However, the city is likely not responsible for plumbing repairs on residential properties.
So, when is the city responsible for sewer lines?
Municipalities and cities will be held liable for any issues with the public sewage main. For instance, the city will be responsible for repairs if there are significant obstructions to the city's sanitary system, such as fatbergs. Clogs in the main sewer lines, which transport waste away from residences and businesses, can rather easily result in a sewer backup. Due to lower drains, homes with basements are more likely to encounter sewer backups due to a backed-up municipal sewage system.
Since lower lateral pipes extend beyond a homeowner's property boundary, many people believe that is not their responsibility. However, the owner of a residential property is often responsible for upkeep and repairs to the lower lateral pipework. Since they may require digging onto the sidewalk or the street, lower lateral repairs might be more expensive than other plumbing adjustments.
How A Video Inspection Camera Help Maintain Your Pipes:
With a video inspection camera you can clearly see what's wrong, where leaks are, and potential reasons for the problem in your pipes. This enables maintenance personnel to decide more effectively how to address the issue, ensuring that it is solved in the long-term and saving money. You can verify that the fixes you use are the ones that are required because you can see the issue for yourself. Due to this, video inspections are among the best ways to locate problems and determine the best course of action.
The vCam-6 HD inspection system from Vivax-Metrotech allows you to cover a range of inspections, including municipal collection systems, residential plumbing, indoor commercial lines, and lateral lines from three inches up to eight inches in diameter. Our camera systems use the latest technology packaged in a rugged, lightweight, compact profile made specifically for harsh conditions related to sewer lateral inspections. A full one-year warranty, on-site training, and local support through Rose Equipment back up all Vivax-Metrotech camera systems. Click here for more information.
How Sewer Jetters Can Clear Lines:
The sewer cleaning machine can clean clogs quickly and effectively without reaching all the way down the pipe. Sewer jetters are also minimally invasive and not likely to damage pipes, which makes them a quick and easy way to clean up recurring clogs. If you are facing clogged pipes in your community, a sewer jetter can be an effective way to clean them out.
O’Brien equipment features tough, durable trailer sewer jetting machines:
O’Brien Sewer Jetters are designed and built from the ground up with contractors, industrial site users, and municipalities in mind. Our trailer sewer jetting machines range in size from 200 to 700 gallons, flow ratings of 10 to 65 GPM, and pressure ratings of 2000 to 4000 psi mean you’ll easily meet the toughest demands of your projects. Some of the features included:
Kohler Diesel Engine, tier 4 Final, U.S. made, diesel engine is quieter, has more torque, and lasts longer.
A rugged Frame Design and Axle ideally suited for heavy-duty applications.
Rotating Hose Reel (190º), hydraulically driven hose reel allows for easy access to the manhole regardless of the trailer’s position.
Steel Shrouded Engine/Pump Compartment with keyed access doors provides protection for the engine and water pump while also providing an area for ample tool storage.
The Water Tank is a tough polyethylene tank that stands up to harsh weather and is backed by a lifetime warranty. Click here to download the brochure.
Learn more about how we can help you keep your sewers and pipes clean by contacting us today at (402) 467-5988.