An older core

Downtown Fullerton includes some of the oldest buildings in the city, along with nearby residential streets and newer infill. Older buildings may have sewer laterals that have been repaired, extended or connected in ways no one fully documented. A camera inspection is often the first time anyone has seen the whole line.

Lots are more built-up than in suburban tracts. Laterals can run under sidewalks, patios, parking areas or neighboring structures, which makes locating especially useful before any repair is discussed.

Downtown situations and what to ask

SituationWhy it mattersAsk
Older home near downtownOriginal or patched laterals of mixed material.Where does the material change?
Restaurant or food businessGrease can build up in drain lines.Is buildup or pipe damage the main issue?
Mixed-use buildingSeveral units may share one lateral.Which fixtures and units feed this line?
Line under hardscapeConcrete and pavers cover the route.Can you mark the route on the paving?
Near the public right of wayResponsibility may be shared or unclear.Have you checked with the city?

Before a downtown inspection

  • Confirm who controls access to the cleanout, especially in shared buildings.
  • Let tenants or neighbors know about the visit if the line is shared.
  • Plan around business hours so water use can be paused.
  • Gather any building plans or past plumbing records.
  • Check the contractor's CSLB license at cslb.ca.gov.

Who to contact

  • Ifthe problem is on your private lineThenwork with a licensed plumber and check permit needs with the City of Fullerton.
  • Ifthe problem may be in the public main or the streetThencontact the City of Fullerton.
  • Ifthe line is shared between ownersThensort out responsibility among owners before work starts.

Questions to ask a plumber

  1. Does this lateral serve more than one unit or building?
  2. Is any part of it under a neighbor's property or the sidewalk?
  3. Will you film from more than one access point if needed?
  4. Is the issue grease, roots or damaged pipe?
Map of Downtown Fullerton. It shows an area, not an office or a job site.

Common questions

Is commercial sewer camera work different?

The camera works the same way, but access, shared lines and business hours add planning. Ask about commercial experience when booking.

Who handles the downtown sewer mains?

Contact the City of Fullerton about public sewer questions.

Can I reach you about a downtown property?

This is a preview site for Fullerton Sewer Camera Inspection. The phone number shown is temporary and the request form is not yet connected, so a submission is not sent anywhere yet.

General information for Fullerton, not a quote or professional advice. In an emergency, call 911.