How to use this worksheet
Work through each section and circle the answer that fits your line. Each answer nudges toward one approach or another. When you finish, look at which options came up most often and which conditions ruled something out.
This is a homeowner's thinking tool. Soil, depth, pipe condition and local rules can change the answer, and only someone who has inspected the line can say what is practical.
Pipe condition
| Question | If yes, consider | If no, consider |
|---|---|---|
| Is the pipe still round along most of its length? | Lining or bursting | Bursting or excavation |
| Are defects limited to one or two spots? | Spot repair or sectional liner | Full-length lining or bursting |
| Did the camera pass every section? | Trenchless planning can proceed | Expect a dig at the blockage |
| Is there a belly holding water? | Ask about re-grading that section | No grade correction needed |
| Is heavy scale present in cast iron? | Descaling before lining, or bursting | Standard cleaning before lining |
Site and surroundings
| Question | If yes, consider | If no, consider |
|---|---|---|
| Does the line run under a driveway or patio? | Trenchless methods, careful pit placement | Open trench may be simpler |
| Are gas or water lines close beside the sewer? | Lining, which does not displace soil | Bursting remains an option |
| Is there a usable cleanout? | Lining may need no pits | A cleanout may be added |
| Are large trees along the route? | Trenchless to limit root cutting | Fewer constraints on digging |
| Is part of the run under the parkway? | Check with the City of Fullerton first | Work stays on private property |
Tally your results
- IfMost answers point to liningThenAsk how the line will be cleaned and how connections will be reopened.
- IfMost answers point to burstingThenAsk where pits will go and how nearby utilities will be protected.
- IfAnswers point to a spot repairThenAsk whether a short repair solves the problem without full replacement.
- IfAny answer requires excavationThenAsk whether a combined job makes sense.
Take these to the plumber
- Here is how I answered the worksheet. Where am I wrong?
- Which condition on my line rules out the other method?
- Would you quote more than one approach?
Common questions
Can this worksheet tell me which method to buy?
No. It organizes what you know so your conversation with a licensed plumber is more productive.
What if my answers point in different directions?
That is common, and it often means a combined approach is worth discussing.
Where do I find the answers?
Pipe condition comes from the camera video. Site questions come from a walk around the yard and the locator marks.
General information for Fullerton, not a quote or professional advice. In an emergency, call 911.