Home alterations always come with their pros and cons, but unexpected sewer and drainage problems can very quickly turn a renovation project into a practical and financial nightmare. Wet areas in old homes are usually on the top of the hit list for a makeover, and there’s no denying that an updated bathroom and/or kitchen can transform the feel and the look of an older home. Sometimes home extensions mean moving old sewer lines or joining new lines into existing ones. As with any home reno project, it pays to do your research before you launch into it: as the old cliché goes, ‘forewarned is forearmed’.
Before you begin your renovation, you need to contact your local council and find out what sewerage and water plans you need to obtain. Water and sewer plans will help your design professional in planning your alterations with minimal disturbance to existing pipework.
Old Sewer Pipes
If your home renovation involves a lot of earthworks, old sewer lines could cause you a nasty headache.
Depending on the age of the sewerage pipes, your plumbing professional may suggest replacing the entire line. Although this is an extra and maybe unexpected cost, it may save you money and stress down the track – over time, aged pipework can crack and leak, and if you’ve built over top of it, it may be difficult and more costly to repair.
If possible, avoid digging close to existing underground pipework. If the unfortunate occurs and a sewer pipe gets damaged, you must contact your plumber immediately.
Can I Replace a Sewer Line Myself?
Be prepared: replacing or shifting sewerage lines isn’t cheap. What’s more, this is one area where DIY isn’t an option! Unless you’re a licensed plumber, you can’t legally replace, repair or maintain a sewer line yourself. The harsh reality is that insurance won’t cover sewerage alterations unless there’s a compliance certificate to prove that it’s all up to scratch. And the compliance certificate can only be given by a certified professional for a job that’s been carried out by a qualified person. So, even if you’re confident in your ability to get the job done satisfactorily, it’s a bad idea to try.
Shared Sewer Lines
It’s important to determine whether the sewer line servicing your property is shared by any of your neighbours. If this is the case, it’s wise to consult your neighbours before you launch into any repairs or replacements which may affect the shared portion of the line. To avoid unnecessary and expensive conflict, details regarding the cost of replacing shared pipework should be discussed with all personnel involved.
For more information on sewerage issues faced by home renovators, call the team at Limcora on 1300 006 606. We understand plumbing and we know what it takes to ensure that your renovation project goes as smoothly as possible.
