Don't let clogged sewers wreak havoc on your home

3/3/2020 (Permalink)

Don't let clogged sewers wreak havoc on your home

Backed up sewers can cause thousands of dollars in damage to floors, electrical systems, walls, furniture and other belongings. Learn about causes of sewer backups, what you as a homeowner are responsible for maintaining and steps you can take to protect your home against sewer problems.

Homeowners’ responsibility for sewer maintenance

Most homeowners may not realize that they are responsible for the maintenance and repair of their house or sewer lateral—that is, the pipeline between the city sanitary sewer main (which is usually located in the street) and the building.

The sewer lateral is owned and maintained by the property owner and the homeowners responsibility includes any part of the lateral that extends into the street or public right of way. A cracked or deteriorated lateral or one filled with tree roots can allow groundwater to seep into the system, contributing to the problem.

For homeowners who want to insure themselves against sewer backups, coverage is available from most providers for a nominal cost. 

https://www.iii.org/article/protect-your-house-from-sewer-backups

SERVPRO of South Arlington is here for all of your restoration needs.