Housing and pipe
Homes near Hillcrest Park range widely in age, and many predate the large postwar tract developments elsewhere in North Orange County. Older houses here often have raised foundations with a crawlspace, which makes supply and drain lines easier to inspect than in slab homes.
Original plumbing in houses of this era was commonly galvanized steel for water and cast iron for drains, with clay or cast-iron laterals to the street. Many homes have had partial updates, so expect a mix.
What you may find
| System | Common in older homes here | What to check |
|---|---|---|
| Water supply | Galvanized steel, sometimes partly replaced with copper | Pressure at upstairs or far fixtures, rusty first draw |
| Drains | Cast iron under the house | Scale, cracks, damp crawlspace soil |
| Sewer lateral | Clay or cast iron | Root intrusion, offsets; camera inspection |
| Foundation | Often raised with crawlspace; some slabs | Access for repairs and repipes |
| Water heater | Replaced over the years | Strapping, venting, galvanized connections |
A sensible first look for owners
- Identify supply pipe at the water heater and in the crawlspace
- Check the crawlspace for damp soil or drips under drains
- Note drain speed at every fixture
- Find the sewer cleanout
- Keep a symptom log for a few weeks
Who to contact
- Water service and meter
- City of Fullerton water utility
- Permits and street trees
- Check with the City of Fullerton
- Gas emergencies
- Leave, then call 911 or SoCalGas from outside
- Contractor license check
- cslb.ca.gov
Common questions
Are all homes near Hillcrest Park old?
No. The area includes homes of different ages, some rebuilt or heavily remodeled. Check your own house's pipe rather than assuming.
Is a crawlspace an advantage for repiping?
Often yes. Pipe can sometimes be routed under the floor, reducing wall openings.
Who handles roots from a street tree?
Check with the City of Fullerton before cutting roots of any tree that may be public.
General information for Downtown Fullerton, not a quote or professional advice. In an emergency, call 911.