Well-Placed Cleanouts ensure backed-ups to sinks and toilets can be cleared quickly and easily.
Well-placed Cleanouts, especially one near the public street, known as a “property line cleanout,” add ease of use value to your private sewer line. An accessible cleanout, placed near bends and/or strategic points along your sewer line, provides access for clearing clogs caused by roots, grease, or debris. When your drains back up, how easy it is to clear a clog and restore service to your sinks and toilets depends on the accessibility and location of your cleanouts.
If you are remodeling your home and wish to add a cleanout, or are required to by your Sewer Utility Provider, these are relatively easy projects that can be installed quickly.
If you Need new a Cleanout Installed, call us at 408-693-6018 or use contact us form to get a free estimate.
If you need drain-clearing services, see our Hydro-Jetting to Clear Clogs service.
What is a “Cleanout” and what is a “Property Line Cleanout?”
A cleanout is an access point for inserting tools like plumber’s snakes or inspection cameras into your sewer line. Most homes have a cleanout near the exterior walls and may also have interior cleanouts near sinks. A “property line cleanout” is located near the public sidewalk or street, allowing easier access to the point where your private sewer line connects to the main utility line.
If you do not have a property line cleanout, your utility provider will require one during remodels or sewer line work. Freedom Underground can pull the necessary permits and ensure your cleanout complies with local requirements
Benefits of a Property Line Cleanout
A property line cleanout marks where your private sewer line (upper lateral or the part from your home to the property line) connects to the utility’s line (lower lateral or the part between the property line cleanout and the sewer main). Many San Jose area utility providers will clear clogs from this point towards the main sewer line if the cleanout is compliant. This can save you from hiring a plumber for maintenance, as many providers offer this service at no cost, but only if there is a compliant cleanout.
In San Carlos, they will maintain (i.e. repair) the lower lateral if there is a property line cleanout which is a significant service.
Where is my cleanout?
Older homes in the San Francisco Bay Area may lack a cleanout. If a home lacks a convenient cleanout, the homeowner or a plumber will need to access the sewer line through a roof vent or by removing a toilet. Moderately older homes may have both internal and external cleanouts but still lack a cleanout at the property line. If you are not sure if you have one, check around the external wall of your home and within a few feet of the sidewalk. A cleanout should not be hard to find.
When to Install a Property Line Cleanout?
- During a Remodel: Significant remodels often require a property line cleanout to bring your sewer system up to code.
- When Replacing Your Sewer Line: If you are replacing any part of your sewer line, it is a good time to install a property line cleanout. Freedom Underground can handle this as part of your project.
- If You Suspect a Problem: If your sewer backs up and the clog is between your property line and the sewer main, you are responsible for clearing it unless you have a property line cleanout in which case, your sewer utility provider will usually do the cleaning service at not cost–check with your provider to see what they do and do not offer.
As underground plumbing specialists, Freedom Underground provides expert evaluations, fair pricing, and the information you need to make an informed decision. To learn more or schedule an estimate, call us at 408-693-6018 or use our contact form.