What is a sewer cleanout?

Many homes have sewer lateral cleanouts. A cleanout is a vertical pipe from an underground lateral to the surface. A sewer cleanout is a point of access where the sewer lateral can be serviced. It usually is 4" in diameter and has a tight-fitting steel or plastic cap over it. If you are not successful in locating your sewer cleanout, you either do not have one or it may be buried under dirt.  A plumber can assist you with locating it.  If your home does not have a sewer cleanout, you may want to add one as it allows you or your plumber quick access to stop costly sewage backups into your home.    

Show All Answers

1. What is a sanitary sewer lateral?
2. What is a sewer cleanout?
3. Who is responsible for the maintenance of the private sewer lateral?
4. Why are defective sewer laterals a problem?
5. Why is it important to keep rainwater from entering sanitary sewer laterals?
6. How can you maintain your private sewer lateral?
7. Should you purchase sewage backup insurance?