Private sewer laterals connect homes and businesses to RVSD's public sewer system and account for about 50% of all sewer spills!
While RVSD maintains the public sewers, property owners are responsible for their private laterals. These laterals can be damaged by roots, construction work, or age, potentially allowing large volumes of water to enter the public system. This can lead to public and private sewer spills, including potential sewage backups into your home. Additionally, these spills can harm local ecosystems and contaminate waterways, negatively impacting wildlife and water quality.
To prevent such issues, property owners should hire a licensed plumbing contractor to perform a video inspection. This can reveal defects such as cracks, root intrusion, or offset joints. Ensure that all repairs comply with RVSD standards and are inspected by a District Inspector.
For more information on permitting and hiring a contractor, visit our Permits page here Version OptionsSewer Pipe MaintenanceHeadline.
Tip
Ensure that your storm drains, sump pumps, and gutters flow into a storm drain, not into your sewer lateral. Watch our Sump Pumps video to learn more.