Hiring a plumbing or drainage contractor
When pipes may need to be dug up
This section is primarily for those experiencing sewer or drainage problems; however, many of the tips are the same for those who must call a contractor to dig up and replace a water service. For details regarding pipe replacement work on private property, please contact a citizen service representative at 3-1-1 or see the Development Services website. The City generally does not repair or replace sewer or drainage pipes on private property. The City cannot recommend firms or companies for hire as this creates a conflict of interest. We can provide information so you can make the most informed decision possible.
- What could be the problem?
- What should I consider first?
- How do I find a reputable contractor?
- How will I know what work needs to be done?
- What else should I be aware of?
- What does the City allow private plumbers to clean?
What could be the problem?
Problems with your water service are usually easy to detect as you will notice a loss of water pressure from your taps and most likely hear the sound of water rushing through the pipes in your home, even though the taps are turned off. Water might also be bubbling up from your lawn or from the pavement signifying a substantial leak. Locate your water service in order to shut-off the incoming service at the City shut-off valve. For sewer and drainage related trouble, understanding how your sewer and drainage system works will help you identify the problem and the possible solution.
What should I consider?
The health and safety of your family and your neighbours is the number one issue. Ensuring that your sewage and drainage systems are functioning is very important to maintaining your family’s wellbeing. Additionally, problems with sewage and drainage can cause property damage, regular maintenance is key to avoiding property damage.
The cost of repairing your system can vary due to the techniques and equipment used. Ask the contractor what they charge hourly for labour and equipment. Knowing the location or path of an underground pipe and depth will help firm up your quotes. Having the sewer-line scoped or traced with radio wave detection will accurately locate the path and depth of the pipe underground. You may want to have this information completed before interviewing contractors. Most plumbing companies can provide this service.
How do I find a reputable contractor?
When possible, get quotes from a number of different companies and ask the contractor questions about how, when and what work will be completed. Do you have friends or neighbours who can recommend a plumbing or drainage company? Once you have narrowed your search, you may want to check with the Better Business Bureau at 604-682-2711 to check the company’s reputation. Get references for previous work that the contractor has completed. Travel by the referenced site and see whether the yard has been reinstated.
How will I know what work needs to be done?
Since we often cannot see the cause of the plumbing or drainage problem, it can be difficult to predict the scope of the work required. In some cases, requesting a video inspection of the pipe will confirm what kind of repair needs to be made. A number of plumbing and drainage contractors have video equipment that can be placed into a plumbing system through a clean-out access or toilet stub. This equipment pin-points breaks, flat spots, grease, root intrusions or other common troubles. If you are thinking about having your sewer service inspected, ensure the contractor makes a VHS or DVD copy or provides a comprehensive written report of the video inspection for you in case you need to refer to the information.
What else should I be aware of?
Before hiring a contractor, confirm whether they are registered for insurance coverage with WorkSafe BC. As a homeowner or resident, if you employ a worker or contractor, a gardener or landscaper on a regular basis, you may be required to register for insurance coverage with WorkSafeBC
Is there anything else?
Once you find a contractor, have them provide you a contract for exactly the work rendered and let them know what your expectations are. Envision how you want the contractor to leave your property in terms of when the work is completed - extra dirt carted away, grass seed put down, mud washed off the driveway, etc. Don't forget to include completion dates so you don't have to wait for weeks with a gaping hole or a mountain of dirt in your front yard while the contractor is working elsewhere. Will they guarantee their work?
As well, ensure that the required permits are acquired for the work involved. Permits ensure that the work will be inspected per the appropriate building guidelines. This will guarantee workmanship and often fulfills a homeowner’s home insurance coverage if further problems arise.
If you are renewing or repairing the sewer service, you should consider installing a clean-out access outside the home. A proper clean-out, although not a permanent solution to a pipe requiring replacement, will help prevent future problems through annual maintenance. Furthermore, an outside clean-out will allow workers to clean or clear the pipe without having to entering your home.
What does the City allow private plumbers to clean?
The City allows licensed plumbers to clean and clear the full portion of the sewer connection from the home to the sewer main. Private plumbing companies are allowed to fully clean and inspect a sewer connection from the home to the sewer main. However, only the City or its agents are permitted to excavate or repair the City portion of the sewer connection.
In instances where the City determines that it is appropriate to offer reimbursement, only reasonable sewer service cleaning costs will be provided. If the sewer service is left un-cleaned or for the City to complete the cleaning, compensation may be denied or only partial payment will be considered.
Please note the City of Vancouver generally does not reimburse costs associated with video inspections, toilet removal, materials, environmental fees or other miscellaneous charges.
The location of a blockage on City of Vancouver property does not necessarily mean that the City is legally responsible for any resulting costs or damages. Other factors must also be considered before a final decision is reached regarding liability.
An Ounce of Prevention
The City offers a preventive maintenance program to owners of houses with reoccurring sewer back-ups. This service entails regularly scheduled maintenance of the sewer service and is very effective at keeping problems at bay. For more information
Installing an exterior clean-out provides access to your sewer service without having to enter your home. This provides flexibility in scheduling service calls and reduces homeowner inconvenience.