When is the City Responsible for a Plano Sewer Line Break?

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When is the City Responsible for a Plano Sewer Line Break?

If you’ve got a sewer line problem in Plano, your first thought (after maybe “ew”)  is probably, “Who’s paying for this?” Sewer line repairs aren’t exactly pocket change, and whether the city or the homeowner foots the bill depends on where the break occurs. Our Plano plumbers will help you figure out when the city is responsible—and when it’s on you to call in a plumber for help.


trenchless sewer

Who Owns What?

Sewer systems are a little like driveways. You own your driveway, but the city owns the street it connects to. Similarly, homeowners are responsible for the sewer line on their property up until it reaches the city’s main sewer line. But the exact point where responsibility shifts can be a little murky. Here’s how it typically breaks down:

  • Your responsibility: The portion of the sewer line running from your house to the main sewer line (often called the private lateral).
  • City’s responsibility: The main sewer line and anything beyond your property line in the city’s right-of-way.

That means if the break happens in your yard, driveway, or under your house—it’s on you. If the break happens in the city-owned portion of the line, good news, the city should cover it.

But (and this is a big but) there are exceptions, and some situations fall into a gray area. For instance, if the break occurs near the property line, determining responsibility can be tricky. Some municipalities take responsibility up to the curb, while others place the burden on homeowners even if the damage is close to the main sewer line.

Additionally, if tree roots, clogs, aging pipes, or even built-up debris that needs professional sewer cleaning, it’s usually considered your responsibility—even if it extends close to city property. This is why regular sewer line maintenance is so important! A professional sewer repair in Plano, TX can help keep your pipes in top shape and prevent costly disasters.


Plano Trenchless Sewer Repair: A Smart Fix

If you do end up responsible for fixing your sewer line, don’t panic. You don’t necessarily have to dig up your entire yard! If you’re a Plano homeowner, Plano trenchless sewer repair is a game-changer. 

This method includes a sewer camera inspection, where a small boroscope is sent down the pipes to pinpoint the issue. From there, professionals may use pipe lining, where a resin-coated liner is inserted into the old pipe and hardens to create a seamless, durable new pipe.

Alternatively, pipe bursting may be used—this technique involves attaching a new pipe to an entry point of the old one and pulling it through, effectively breaking the old pipe apart while simultaneously installing the replacement. These trenchless solutions minimize damage, reduce labor costs, and restore your sewer line efficiently—without turning your yard into a construction zone.


Who Are You Gonna Call? Plano Plumbers!

If you’re dealing with a sewer issue and aren’t sure who’s responsible, start with a sewer line video inspection in Plano to get clarity. Once you know where the problem is, you can take the right steps—whether that’s calling the city or scheduling a repair.

Need expert help? Contact DNA Plumbing to book an inspection and get your sewer line back in shape—without the stress.

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