Portland Party Sewer Scoping, Inspections and Replacement

Nonconforming Sewer Connections: 'Party Sewers'

A party sewer is an example of a nonconforming sewer connection in Portland, Oregon. A party sewer exists when a property's sewer line is shared by one or more properties before entering the public sewer main. Many Portland property owners are unaware of the risks associated with having such a sewer connection. Having a party sewer line is no party. Unexpected health risks, denial of certain permits, real estate transaction delays as well as legal and financial stresses can all be associated with the discovery of a party sewer.

The Portland real estate market has become increasingly aware of the risks associated with being involved in a nonconforming sewer transaction. You are unlikely to enter into a real estate agreement with any native real estate broker without the recommendation of sewer scope. A sewer scope allows for a video inspection of the inner workings of a sewer system. The discovery of a party sewer early on will help to prevent costly disruptions to your real estate transactions. As the real estate market in Portland continues to evolve, buyers' agents continue to request proof that the property's sewer is meeting code requirements. You don't want to be caught off guard. Have a sewer scope completed if you plan to put your house on the market.

All party sewers have one property that is known as the "host" sewer line and each sewer line that joins the host line is considered a "guest" line. If you are considered to be a guest line it will be required that you disconnect from the host line and tap into the city mainline per code requirements. Determining if you have a party sewer is highly recommended even if you are not selling your home. Finding out you are a guest on a sewer line is a tough situation to find yourself in, especially if it is not on your terms. A host line can request approval from the city to cap a guest line when a private sewer lateral was not installed with a legally binding easement in place.

The City of Portland has recently been reviewing old records as part of a comprehensive plan to replace all nonconforming sewer systems. As a property owner you bear the burden of proof as to the condition of your sewer system. Although records may not show your existing system to be compliant, this does not necessarily reflect an accurate portrayal of your sewer system. If you have received a letter from the Environmental Services department about nonconforming sewers, act now.

A video camera inspection that shows the inner workings of a sewer pipe is known as a sewer scope. A small camera is introduced into the pipe, with an option to record to a DVD, and moved through the pipeline in either direction at a steady pace, stopping as needed to document cracks, root intrusions, bellies in the pipe and so on. A footage counter is displayed and the option to voice over record is used to announce conditions seen by the television camera.

Sewer scopes have gained popularity as Party Sewershave become common knowledge in the Portland, Oregon area. They are also a cost effective way to identify the root causes behind why your sewer system may be backing up sewage or clogging easily. A video inspection will identify which action needs to be taken. From a spot repair, to a full line sewer replacement or perhaps regular maintenance using a hydro jetting machine is required. Either way, the completion of a sewer scope is money well spent.

Once you have visible evidence as to the state of you sewer line, you are now educated enough to actually solve your sewer problem once for all, eliminating the annoying symptoms. Be wary of the contractor who only offers a quick fix to your sewer line, only to be back again to solve the same problem again and again. The offering of a sewer scope from a reputable contactor signifies an important step towards a full time solution.

Lovett Inc. has been completing sewer rehabilitation projects in Portland since 1997, ranging from party sewer separations to mainline extensions and sewer scope video inspections. To put it straight, we are the right team to replace your sewer line and correct your current status with the City of Portland.

Lovett is here to help you develop a fine-tuned strategy. Our highly trained technicians can analyze your existing sewer line and arm you with some powerful information about the status of your current line. By getting your sewer scoped you will be able to find some answers and plan accordingly. Our team will also provide an estimate (if necessary) at no additional charge so that you can get a complete understanding of your sewer system's status.