Now is the Time to Schedule a Sewer Camera Inspection

Pipe Spy employee inspecting sewer line

There’s a critical system beneath your home that shouldn’t be overlooked: your private sewer lateral. At Pipe Spy, a leader in trenchless sewer line repair and replacement in the East Bay Area since 1998, we understand the importance of proactive sewer maintenance. Here’s why now is the opportune time to schedule your sewer inspection. Stay Ahead of Sewer Problems Often, … Read More

What are trenchless sewer pipe repair methods?

pipe-bursting-diagram

Sewer repair projects can be a huge headache for homeowners. They can be disruptive, expensive, and time-consuming – but these can all be avoided using the right trenchless sewer repair method. In this post, we’ll discuss trenchless sewer repair, the different trenchless repair methods and technologies, and which method to choose for your sewer repair. What Is Trenchless Sewer Repair? … Read More

What happens when you receive a Deficiency Notice?

sewer-camera-inspection-in-progress

If you receive a deficiency notice for your private sewer lateral from the City of Oakland or other East Bay municipality, it means the city has identified a problem with the pipe that carries wastewater from your house to the main sewer line, i.e, your private sewer lateral. As a homeowner, you are responsible for addressing this issue. Here’s what … Read More

Replacing Your Service Water Line

house water service line

As a homeowner, you will most likely experience problems with the water main to your house at some point – and unfortunately, you will probably have to hire a professional plumber to perform the necessary repairs. When that day comes, here are some things to keep in mind when you’re facing an expensive water line repair or service line replacement. … Read More

How To Unclog A Sewer Lateral

clogged sink drain

A clog in your sewer line can be frustrating, especially if you don’t know what’s causing it or what to do next. Here’s how to address both minor and major clogs – and how to tell the difference between the two. A Clogged Sewer Lateral Is a Big Problem When clogged, private sewer laterals (PSLs) can damage other parts of … Read More

Why You Should Avoid a DIY Sewer Line Repair

sewer-backup-diagram

As a homeowner, it’s important to have basic knowledge about repairing and maintaining common issues that arise over the lifetime of a house. Many homeowners become extremely adept at managing household projects and repairs. But there is one DIY project that is definitely not basic and best left to the plumbing professionals: sewer line repair. Sewer repairs can become very … Read More

What Are Requirements for Private Sewer Laterals in Oakland and the East Bay?

sewer-camera-inspection-in-progress

In the East Bay region of California, all residential, commercial, and industrial properties are subject to the East Bay Municipal Utility District Private Sewer Lateral Program (EBMUD PSL) Program. The EBMUD ordinance is a local program designed to improve the quality of San Francisco Bay Area water resources. Old, cracked sewer pipes can allow rain to infiltrate municipal wastewater facilities: … Read More

Why Is Open Trench Excavation Sometimes Necessary for Sewer Line Repair?

open trench sewer repair oakland and east bay

Open trench excavation is the traditional and previously most common method for sewer lateral repair or replacement. Open trench excavation involves  excavating a trench for the manual installation of each piece of pipe. This type of sewer work is applicable to collapsed pipes, severely broken pipes, and heavy root blockages. The open trench method is, on average, more costly than trenchless … Read More

How To Care For Your Garbage Disposal

garbage-disposal-foods

A garbage disposal is a convenient tool for discarding food waste during your kitchen cleaning routine. However garbage disposals can accumulate residue and bacteria as discarded food and organic matter decompose. This can result in odors. How Do Garbage Disposals Work? Understanding how your garbage disposal works will help you use it properly as well as extend the service life … Read More

How to Choose the Best Trenchless Sewer Repair Professional

pricing-for-sewer-line-inspections

Sewer repair or plumbing projects can be intimidating. Homeowners are not typically plumbing professionals with years of experience. For most property owners, it’s a good idea to hire a professional to help with your sewer repair. But how do you choose between potential trenchless sewer repair professionals? Here’s a guide to help you select the right trenchless sewer repair professional … Read More