WHAT PEOPLE ARE SAYING ABOUT US
"We want to thank you for assisting us! I found your website on the internet, contacted you by e-mail and received a call within 24 hours from Greg Abbott. Now that is great customer service! You listened to my problem and were able to refer us to Jerry Fannin of Bio Remedies in El Paso, Texas. We contacted Bio Remedies and again, were immediately assisted. The problem was remedied immediately. The technicians, Joe Ortega and Aaron were very professional, pleasant and worked with diligence.We cannot thank you enough for the relief we felt after Bio Remedies took care of the sewer problem we were having. We have also contacted Jerry Fannin and thanked him but wanted you to know that the results were excellent!"
John and Denise Aranda
El Paso, TX
Sewer Lateral FAQ
This page is intended to answer the most common questions about sewer laterals.
Q: What is a "sewer lateral?"
A: A "sewer lateral" is that portion of the sanitary sewer line which connects a house's or business' plumbing to the municipal sewer system. Typically, most, but not all, of the "sewer lateral" is on private property, while the other portion of the sewer system, the "sewer main," is usually all in the public right-of-way.
Q: Why should you be concerned about the condition of your sewer lateral?
A: Sewer laterals which are in poor condition present two problems: (1) faulty sewer lines can leak raw sewage in the ground, which may be a public health issue; (2) storm water can invade poorly sealed sewer lines and can overload the sewer system, causing sanitary sewer overflows (SSOs) and backups, and can occasionally overload the wastewater treatment facilities, resulting in the discharge of partially treated wastewater into the environment.
Q: What are the problems associated with sewer laterals?
A: Homes built 1960 often have never replaced their original sewer laterals. Over time, these pipelines, generally made of clay, can crack, become disjointed, experience displacement, and/or be subjected to intrusion by roots, all of which can cause leakage and blockage. In addition, some sewer laterals lack the right kind of 'cleanouts," which provides access for clearing blockages.
Q: Whose responsibility is the maintenance of the sewer laterals?
A: In most jurisdictions, the maintenance of the sewer lateral, up to and including the connection to the main, is the responsibility of the private property owner. The municipalities responsibility is the maintenance of the sewer main.
Q: At what point(s) am I required to repair or replace my sewer lateral?
A: You may voluntarily choose to repair or replace your sewer lateral at any time you feel it is necessary (for example, if you are experiencing frequent sewer backups or blockages). However, your local Sanitary District Ordinance Code may requires that non-compliant (i.e., those with defects) sewer laterals be repaired or replaced when a property is sold - before the close of escrow.
Q: Do I absolutely need to have a video made of my sewer?
A: No. The point of a sewer video is to demonstrate that the sewer lateral is in compliance, or to identify specific problems which can be repaired.
Q: Where do I find a contractor to repair or replace my sewer lateral?
A: TRIC maintains a list of licensed and certified plumbing contractors. If you wish to check a contractor's license, you may do so with the State’s Contractors License Board. Most of these contractors are also able to make sewer videos.
Q: Is a test required on the repaired or replaced sewer lateral?
A: Air or water pressure tests are the best way to ensure that the line is free of leakage and has been replaced properly.
