Who is Responsible for Sewer Line Repairs?

Sewer lines are the primary component that makes your plumbing system work. They carry wastewater from your home to the city’s treatment plan. That’s why sewer lines must be regularly maintained and quickly repaired to avoid any issues.

 

Since sewer lines are connected to the main municipal sewer system, it’s often a question of who should repair them when a problem arises. To identify whose responsibility it is to repair a broken sewer line, you need to determine which part of the system falls under your responsibility and which falls under the city. Let’s discuss!

 

Who is Responsible for Sewer Line Repairs?

 

Many homeowners believe that their city is responsible for maintaining and repairing sewer pipes away from their property line. However, the opposite is true. Homeowners are responsible for maintaining and repairing lines that run from their home to the main sewer line. The city’s responsibility comes in when it comes to repairing and maintaining the main underground sewer pipes that carry wastewater and other waste to the city’s treatment plant.

 

Homeowners are expected to take care of any pipes that connect to the main line starting from their home. The main line is the city’s responsibility.  Homeowners should know about upper and lower lateral pipes to properly understand where their sewer line repair responsibility begins and where it ends.

 

Upper and Lower Lateral Pipes

 

Depending on the types of pipes that run from your home to the main sewer line, there are typically two types of pipes you’ll find. This includes the upper lateral and the lower lateral.

 

Upper Lateral Pipe

 

The upper lateral pipe is located within your property lines. It removes wastewater from your house and carries the waste to the lower lateral pipe. It is your responsibility to keep this pipe maintained and fix it if it ever becomes damaged.

 

Lower Lateral Pipe

 

The lower lateral pipe carries the waste from your property line to the main sewer. Since it is not entirely located under your property line, it is the primary debate of responsibility. It is the responsibility of the homeowner to keep this pipe maintained and repaired. Overall, anything that is used to remove waste from your property is your responsibility.

 

When is the City Responsible?

 

If any plumbing or pipe issues occur with the main sewer line in your area, you may notice sewer or waste backing up into the street. If there are any clogs or breaks in the main sewer line that prevent your pipes from dumping into the city’s system, it is the city’s responsibility to fix it.  In this case, you can contact the city and report the issue. They will send a maintenance crew and get the problem fixed as quickly as possible. The longer they leave it, the more potential there is for damage. Therefore, most cities are quick to respond to these types of calls.

 

What Should I Do If I Have a Sewer Line Issue?

 

If you notice any plumbing issues at your home, it is vital to contact a professional plumber immediately for an inspection. Since sewer line issues can be more progressive, causing property damage and posing a health risk, you need to call your local plumber immediately for repairs.

 

Contact All Star Plumbing, Heating, and Air for Your Sewer Line Repairs

 

If you need a reliable Los Angeles sewer line repair company, we’re here to help. Contact All Star Plumbing, Heating, and Air for all your plumbing needs.

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