Sewer Lines: Is the City or Homeowner Responsible?
Like most public utilities, there is a line between who is responsible for damage or repairs. Sewer line replacements are a big job and can cost a lot of money, so it is important to know when the homeowner or the city is responsible.
In this guide, Advanced Trenchless Solutions will explain when you are responsible for your sewer lines and when they fall under the city to make repairs.
Main Sewer Lines
The main sewer line sits on public property and takes waste from surrounding homes to the city’s wastewater treatment plant or other locations. The city is responsible for any problems starting from the main sewer line.
Urban Lateral Sewer Lines
In Wisconsin, the homeowner is responsible for the two lateral lines, which are the pipes that run from your home and connect to the main sewer line. There are two lateral lines: the upper and the lower.
The upper line runs from your house to the property line, while the lower line stems off on public property to connect the upper line to the main sewer line. These lines are responsible for carrying wastewater from your home to the public sewer line.
If any part of those lateral lines breaks or needs replacement, it will be the homeowner’s responsibility.
Rural Septic Systems
If you live in a rural community with no municipal sewer, you, as the homeowner, are responsible for all issues related to your septic system. Septic systems are made up of septic tanks, pipes from your home, and a drainfield.
The septic tank digits organic matter and separates floatable matter like oil and grease. The water then runs to the drainfield and filters into the soil, where it is filtered. Then the water seeps back into the groundwater.
Does Insurance Cover Sewer Line Repairs?
Before you have major work done on your sewer lines, check your homeowner’s insurance to see if any part of those repairs or replacements are covered. If you are worried about your sewer line and the repair costs, consider picking up additional insurance to cover it, which can include sewer and other service line protection.
If your homeowner’s insurance does not cover any sewer line repairs or replacement, then the homeowner is responsible for all costs.
Consider Sewer Line Inspections
Take a proactive approach to your sewer line by scheduling a sewer line inspection. This can help identify any potential problems that could be forming in your sewer line, such as a crack, the beginning of a clog, invading tree roots, and corrosion.
A company like Advanced Trenchless Solutions will dig an access point to your sewer line and use a camera scope to view the inside of the pipe. We can get a clear view of the problem and make recommendations for moving forward.
Make Sewer Line Repairs Easy With Advanced Trenchless Solutions
Contact Advanced Trenchless Solutions for all your sewer line repairs. We offer both pipe bursting and pipe lining, which are both great trenchless solutions for sewer line repairs. We can also get rid of lead service lines and install water lines, all without digging a huge trench in your yard.
Give us a call today at 844-513-4106 or request a consultation online. We’re more than happy to answer your questions and help you determine the best solution for your sewer lines