For homeowners

The symptoms that point to the lateral

More than one drain backing up at once, gurgling from a tub or floor drain when a toilet flushes, sewage smell in the yard or a suspiciously green wet patch, and backups that a plumber cables clear but that return within weeks. One slow sink is a branch line; the whole house is the lateral.

What happens next

A camera inspection, ideally after the line has been jetted so the wall can be seen. You should get the video and a written list of defects with footage marks and depths. That report is what every quote should be based on.

Which fix for which finding

Roots, cracks and offsets on a line holding grade: lining. One crushed spot: point repair. Collapsed or bellied: bursting or replacement. Corroded cast iron under the slab with lots of bends: spray-applied lining. How each method works →

Permits and responsibility

In most cities the lateral from the house to the main is the homeowner's responsibility, and work on it needs a plumbing permit. Anything in the sidewalk or street needs a right-of-way permit as well. The contractor pulls both. If a quote does not mention permits, that is a question to ask before signing.

Five questions before you sign

1. Can I have the camera footage and the defect list?
2. What material is going in and what is its rated life?
3. Is the warranty in writing, and what does it cover?
4. Who pulls the permit and schedules the inspection?
5. Is the crew doing the work your company, or a subcontractor?