Why Oakland sewer lines fail
A large share of Oakland homes went up between the 1910s and the 1940s, and many still drain through the clay pipe that was laid then. Clay comes in short lengths with a joint every few feet. Over a hundred years the ground moves, the joints open, and roots from street trees grow in. In the hills, in Montclair, Oakmore and Redwood Heights, the lateral can also run a long way down a steep lot, which gives it more places to sag or crack.
The signs are the same everywhere: drains that back up again a few months after being cleared, gurgling toilets, or sewage in the lowest tub or shower in the house.
Camera first, then a plan
We do not guess at what is underground. A sewer camera inspection shows the inside of your line from the house to the street. You see where the trouble is and how much of the pipe it affects. Often that turns a feared full replacement into a much smaller job.
Repair options
- Spot repair. Dig at the one bad place and replace that section.
- Trenchless replacement. Replace the line through small access pits, with far less digging across the yard or driveway. It suits many Oakland lots but not every pipe.
- Full replacement. A new line from the house to the main when the old one is done.
We tell you which of these your line needs and why, with the cost of each. When the job needs a permit, we pull it.
EBMUD's sewer lateral rule
Oakland is part of EBMUD's private sewer lateral program. Owners need a compliance certificate at certain points, such as when a home is sold. A lateral has to pass a test to get one, and old clay lines often do not. If you are buying, selling or planning a big remodel, it helps to know the state of your line early. Our sewer lateral compliance page explains how we help with that.
About Friendly Services
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