What is a sewer lateral?

A sewer lateral is a pipe that connects a building's plumbing system to the main sewer line. It is responsible for carrying wastewater and sewage from the building to the municipal sewer system. Sewer laterals are typically made of materials such as PVC, clay, concrete, or cast iron.

Maintenance of sewer laterals is the responsibility of the property owner. This includes ensuring that the lateral is properly installed, repaired, and maintained to prevent leaks, blockages, and other issues that can lead to sewage backups and environmental contamination.

If a sewer lateral becomes damaged, it can lead to costly repairs and potentially hazardous conditions. It is important for property owners to regularly inspect their sewer lateral and address any issues promptly to prevent serious problems. In some cases, municipalities may offer assistance or incentives for property owners to repair or replace their sewer laterals to prevent contamination of the public sewer system.