Sewer lines run from your home to your property line. They connect to a pipe called an upper lateral, which begins at the property line and ends at the upper lateral. Both pipe sections connect to the main sewer system. The upper lateral is a drain pipe that is 12 inches or longer. This is where clogs and other blockages can occur. An underground utility expert is qualified to work on these lines and can help you determine what you are responsible for.
The pipes leading from your property line to your home are your responsibility. The sewer line that connects to the main line is the city’s responsibility. Any pipes that connect to the main line are your responsibility. These pipes include upper and lower laterals. This guide will help you determine who’s responsible for fixing a sewer line. Here are some things to keep in mind when hiring a company to service your sewer line.
Your responsibility to repair a sewer line may be different than the municipality’s. The main sewer line goes through the city, but the lower lateral runs through your property. Tree roots in the lower lateral are typically the responsibility of the property owner. In these cases, you should contact your home insurance company to see if you’re covered for any damage. If you have homeowner’s insurance, you’ll be able to claim the cost of the repair if your policy covers sewer damage.
Preventative Maintenance
Sewer lines should be cleaned regularly. These pipes receive just as much use as the water input lines in your home or business, yet they often get little attention. If you have blocked drains or sinks, your pipes and toilets could be damaged or even backed up. By cleaning your sewer line regularly, you can prevent future problems.
Most underground utility companies will recommend cleaning out your sewer line every 18 to 22 months for newer construction buildings and homes. If your facility or residence is older, you may need to have your pipes cleaned every six to nine months. Regardless of the building age, if you notice recurring clogs, you should have it checked out by a professional every six months. This is important for preventing expensive damage to your pipes. If your sewer line becomes clogged, raw sewage can backflow into your home or business, which will be very expensive to clean up.
Behm Enterprises offers sewer line repair and replacement services. With over 30 years of experience, the knowledgeable staff at Behm Enterprises can help with water and storm water drainage issues. They serve areas across McHenry County, Lake County, and Northern Cook County. Contact us today for solutions to your sewer line issues.
