It happens every spring and summer. A homeowner will decide on a great DIY project to do around their home without considering their sewer lines. Maybe they are building a new fence and rent a post hole digger to make the project easier or decide to build a koi pond in their back yard. The problem is, if you dig in the wrong spots and hit a sewer line, you could be in for a nasty and expensive surprise. Before you begin your next outdoor project that requires soil removal, make sure you know where your sewer lines are.
When sewer lines are installed, a schematic is made and often sent to the local municipality. However, if they have been changed since the original installation, the plans may not be up-to-date. If you can get the plans, that is a good first step, but you may not want to trust that alone. Here are some tips to ensure you know where the sewer lines and if they match what is on the plans if you can obtain them.
- Where does your sewer line leave your home? Look under your crawlspace or in your basement and find the main sewer line. Knowing where it comes out gives you a starting point.
- Where does the sewer line end? Your sewer line either goes to the city sewer line or your septic system. Unless there is a tree or other obstacle, they tend to run in a straight line from the home to the destination.
- Check the physical components to your plans. If the plans and your physical inspection match, you should have a good indication of where the sewer lines are and where not to dig during your project.
If you are having problems locating your sewer lines, calling your local sewer/septic company can help. They can perform an inspection and give you exact dimensions on where your sewer lines are before you start your project.
Posted on behalf of:
Kiddco Plumbing Inc
Sterling, VA 20166
(703) 435-4441
