Understanding Your Sewer Lateral

 

What is a sewer lateral?
A sewer lateral is the underground pipe that connects your home’s plumbing to the main public sewer line. Homeowners are responsible for maintaining and repairing this pipe.

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Who is responsible for maintaining the sewer lateral?
Homeowners are responsible for the entire sewer lateral, including the portion running from the house to the public sewer main, unless your city has a specific maintenance program.

 

What causes sewer lateral damage?
Common causes include aging pipes, root intrusion, ground shifting, pipe corrosion, and blockages from grease or debris.

 

How do I know if my sewer lateral needs repair or replacement?
Signs of sewer lateral issues include:

• Slow or backed-up drains

• Gurgling noises in plumbing

• Foul odors from drains or outside

• Soggy patches in the yard

A camera inspection can determine the exact problem.

 

How often should I get my sewer lateral inspected?
If your home is over 25 years old, a video inspection every few years is recommended. If you're experiencing drainage issues, get an inspection as soon as possible.

 

Sewer Lateral Repair & Replacement

 

What are my repair options?
We use traditional excavation methods to ensure a long-lasting and high-quality repair or replacement.

 

Can I repair just a section of my sewer lateral, or do I need a full replacement?
It depends on the extent of the damage. Small cracks or minor root intrusion may be repaired, but severe damage usually requires a full replacement.

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Do I need a permit to replace my sewer lateral?
Yes. Most Southern California cities require a permit. We handle all necessary permits and inspections for you.

 

What type of pipes do you use for replacements?
We use high-quality SDR 35 or Schedule 40 PVC pipes, which are durable, long-lasting, and resistant to root intrusion and corrosion.

How long does a sewer lateral replacement take?
Most projects take 1-3 days, depending on length, depth, and city inspection schedules.

 

Will my sewer service be interrupted?
Yes, but only temporarily. We work efficiently to restore service as quickly as possible.

 

Cost & Financing​

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How much does a sewer lateral replacement cost?
Costs vary based on length, depth, and required permits. Contact us for a free, no-obligation estimate tailored to your property.

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Will my yard or driveway be affected?
Since we use traditional excavation, some digging is required. We take care to minimize disruption and restore affected areas as best as possible.

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Does my homeowners insurance cover sewer lateral repairs?
Most standard policies do not cover sewer lateral repairs unless you have added specific coverage. We recommend checking with your provider.

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Do you offer financing or payment plans?
Some cities offer sewer lateral rebate programs. We can guide you through available options.

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Do you provide free estimates?
Yes! We offer free, no-obligation estimates so you can understand your options and costs upfront.

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