Homeowner Tips: Protect Sewer Pipes

I know it’s not a pretty topic to discuss. Unfortunately, many homeowners don’t realize that in general, they are responsible for the condition of water and sewer lines connecting their home to the public systems. The city or town’s liability for the water and sewer system ends at ta homeowner’s property line. How can homeowners protect themselves against costly repairs?

There are a number of ways, including taking deliberate steps to safeguard these components that are critical. Even though problems with water and sewer lines are rare, they do occur, and can cost thousands of dollars.

The cost of repairing or replacing a broken water line can start at $1000, and averages in the $2000 range. There are often extra costs involved, like repairing driveways, sidewalks and landscaping.

Insurance

Many companies offer water and sewer line protection insurance. There are exceptions like “pre-existing conditions”, that can make claims difficult at times. There are often recovery taps as well. Policy prices sart around $15 per month, depending on what they cover.

Homeowners Can Be Proactive

Homeowners can take steps to mitigate against problems by keeping the water and sewer pipes flowing smoothly.

• Pipes can be inspected regularly for any signs of leaks.
• Homeowners should always check with water and utility companies before digging in the yard.
• Homeowners can keep pipes clear of FOGG, fat, oil, grease and grit. These can build up in the pipes because they don’t dissolve in water. This build-up can restrict water-flow. Cleaning your pipes can lead to damage, so it’s best not to pour these substances down the drain at all. Instead, pour them into old bottles and scrape out into the trash right before trash pick-up.
• Other items that should never be washed into sewer systems include: construction debris, such as ground-up cement, plaster, shingles, plastic or wood.

There are a number of ways to keep your pipes from clogging and needing repairs, most of which are proactive. It’s always better to prevent damage in the first place than to have to repair because of damage.

Homeowner Tips: Protect Sewer Pipes has been a guest post from our favorite home inspector. Thanks David for an informative article:

David Goldberg –  Home Inspector
phone: 301-913-9213 
fax:  301-774-4554
Reliable Home Services, Inc.
PO Box 5159
Laytonsville, MD 20882
ASHI Member #101584
MD License #29322