An older neighborhood with varied homes
Raymond Hills includes homes from several eras, including houses older than the typical post-war tract and others from the mid-century building boom. That variety means foundations vary too: some older homes sit on raised foundations with crawlspaces, while later houses are more often slab-on-grade.
Older homes may have had their sewer laterals partly replaced over the years, so a single line can include cast iron, clay and newer plastic sections. Mature trees along streets and in yards are part of the neighborhood's character, and part of its sewer story.
Raised foundation versus slab: what it means for drains
Raised foundation
- Drain lines often accessible from the crawlspace
- Easier to inspect and repair under the house
- Lateral still runs underground to the street
Slab-on-grade
- Drain lines run under concrete
- Camera inspection is the main way to see them
- Repairs under the slab are more involved
Common findings in older laterals
| Finding | What it usually means for jetting |
|---|---|
| Mixed materials | Pressure may need adjusting at transitions |
| Roots at clay joints | Jetting clears them; repair may be the long-term fix |
| Old repairs or patches | Inspect closely before using high pressure |
| Heavy cast-iron scale | Careful descaling, then evaluate the wall |
Before work on an older Raymond Hills home
- Ask for a camera inspection of the full lateral before jetting.
- Note any history of past sewer work you know of.
- Check whether trees near the line are street trees; ask the city before cutting.
- Ask the City of Fullerton about permits if repair or replacement is recommended.
Questions to ask a plumber
- Does my line change materials, and where?
- Are there old repairs that need special care?
- Is there crawlspace access to any drain lines?
- What pressure will you use on older pipe?
Common questions
Are Raymond Hills homes all pre-war?
No. The area has a mix of eras. Check your own home's age and history.
Is jetting risky on older lines?
It can be if the pipe is damaged. A camera inspection first shows whether jetting is safe.
Who maintains the sewer under the street?
The City of Fullerton maintains the public sewer mains. Ask the city where your responsibility ends.
General information for Fullerton, not a quote or professional advice. In an emergency, call 911.