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Underground Rooter Sewer & Drains

Oakland Sewer Lateral Repair & Installation

sewer lateral repairs in Oakland, CA

Oakland Sewer Lateral Repair & Installation

For sewer lateral repairs in Oakland, CA, rely on the skilled plumbers at Underground Rooter Sewers and Drains. We recognize the critical role that sewer laterals play in the maintenance of your plumbing system. These pipes transport wastewater from homes and businesses to the main sanitary sewer line.


Once it reaches the main line, the wastewater is directed to the treatment plant. The city's responsibility covers the lower section of the sewer lateral, which runs from the property line to the sewer main. However, homeowners must take charge of maintaining this portion of the pipe to ensure it remains in optimal condition, free of leaks or blockages.

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Oakland Sewer Lateral Compliance Requirements.

In an effort to protect the environment and public health, the cities of Oakland, Berkeley, Albany, EL Cerrito, Kensington, Alameda, and Castro Valley have implemented specific regulations regarding sewer lateral compliance.


These regulations require homeowners to obtain a Sewer Lateral Certificate (SLC) to demonstrate that their sewer lateral is in good condition and complies with local ordinances.

Homeowners in these areas must obtain an SLC in the following situations:

  • When selling a property
  • When performing remodeling or construction work valued at $100,000 or more
  • When changing the size of the water meter

If a property is determined to be a major contributor to sewer system problems, residents of Oakland, Berkeley, Albany, El Cerrito, Kensington, Alameda, or Castro Valley can secure a Sewer Lateral Certificate (SLC) by initially engaging a licensed plumber, such as Underground Sewers and Drains, to assess the condition of their sewer lateral. Should any defects, leaks, or blockages be discovered during the inspection, the plumber will suggest and execute the required repairs or replacements to ensure the sewer lateral meets compliance standards.

There are two types of sewer laterals:

the upper lateral and the lower level.

  • Upper sewer laterals – The upper lateral is located closer to the home or business
  • Lower sewer laterals – That portion of the pipe that is closer to the street and the public sewer system is considered the lower sewer lateral

The Importance of Maintaining Sewer Laterals

Depending on the age of a home or business, sewer laterals could be very old. Some older laterals could even consist of clay pipe. When sewer laterals get compromised, groundwater can enter the lateral. This type of excess water infiltration following major weather events can then overwhelm the sanitary sewer system, causing flooding of streets and yards and allowing untreated sewage to enter rivers, lakes, and streams. The opposite can also occur. When exfiltration occurs, wastewater can flow out of the lateral pipe, contaminating the ground around it. All of these environmental concerns are why it’s so important to maintain good lateral sewer line maintenance.

The Ordinance is in effect in the following locations:

Typical sewer lateral problems that lead to pipeline failure are:

  • Shifting soil that can cause pipe sagging and breaks in the pipe
  • The intrusion of tree roots
  • Pipe degradation. This can be corrosion of metal pipes, scaling or calcification of pipes
  • Joint separation or cracking allowing water infiltration and sediment buildup
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The Benefits of High-Density Polyethylene (HDPE) Sewer Laterals

It’s just a fact that as sewer laterals age, they become increasingly vulnerable. In time, all sewer laterals will require maintenance, repair, or replacement. This is why it’s becoming more popular to install sewer laterals made of or high-density polyethylene (HDPE). HDPE is inexpensive and has a very long lifespan, up to 100 years or more when properly maintained.

Who is Responsible for the Repairs?

The Sewer Services Division of Oakland Public Works is tasked with conducting preventive maintenance on over 920 miles of sewer mains, with diameters ranging from six inches to more than 66 inches. This preventive maintenance includes closed circuit television (CCTV) inspections, thorough cleaning, and minor repairs.


For more extensive repairs, responsibilities are transferred to the Bureau of Design and Construction. Additionally, Sewer Services staff provide recommendations to City engineers for comprehensive pipe rehabilitation projects. The wastewater collection system in Oakland efficiently transports sewage from residential and commercial properties to the East Bay Municipal Utilities District (EBMUD) treatment plant.

Reliable Sewer Lateral Services in Oakland

Property owners in Oakland bear the responsibility for the private sewer laterals that link their residences to the sewer system, including the lower lateral. Underground Sewers and Drains in Oakland is here to assist you in navigating the complexities of sewer lateral repair, installation, and compliance, providing expert guidance, quality service, and a dedication to our community. Additionally, we are available 24/7 to support you during plumbing emergencies, ensuring that your home is well cared for and giving you peace of mind.

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Sewer Lateral Installations In Oakland, CA

A sewer lateral is normally a 6-in diameter pipe that is installed typically from the front property line of a residence to the mainline sewer pipe, which is typically in the middle of the street. There are a lot of exceptions as to where the mainline could be located. For instance, it could be located in an easement at the back or side of a property in a private sewer easement.


Our plumbing experts are experienced in installing and repairing sewer laterals in all situations. Consequently, you may have problems or questions about your sewer lateral. Therefore, we are ready to help. Satisfaction is important to us, so our specialty is to find and recommend the best and lowest-cost solutions for each situation. Furthermore, our Oakland sewer lateral installation plumbers can quickly and efficiently install or repair your sewer lateral pipe.

Need more information? If you need information regarding city or county requirements, fees, or any other important additional information about mainline sewers or sewer laterals, feel free to contact our office at (510) 866-5157. We will happily provide the information to you via phone, email, or fax. Most of all, we would be happy to assist you if you have any questions or need more information.


Sewer lateral installation is a crucial aspect of property maintenance and can have a significant impact on the overall health and functionality of your sewage disposal system. By investing in professional installation services, you can ensure that your property is protected from sewage backups, leaks, and costly repairs. Don't wait until it's too late - contact a reputable plumbing company today to discuss your sewer lateral installation needs.

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