Lots, landscaping and lines
Homes around Laguna Lake sit on lots of varied size and shape, often with mature landscaping. On deeper lots, the water service line from the meter and the sewer lateral to the street can be longer than on a compact tract lot, which affects how leaks are found and how much yard is involved in a repair.
Established trees and irrigation systems add their own considerations: roots near laterals, and irrigation valves and lines that can leak without anyone noticing.
Where problems tend to hide
| Area | Possible issue | How to check |
|---|---|---|
| Yard between meter and house | Service line leak | Meter test with the house shutoff closed |
| Irrigation | Leaking valve or line | Meter test with irrigation off at its valve |
| Sewer lateral | Roots or shifted joints | Camera inspection from the cleanout |
| Water heater | Sediment from hard water | Maintenance calendar and inspection |
| Hose bibs and outdoor fixtures | Slow drips | Walk the property and listen |
Checking a larger property for leaks
- Turn off irrigation.At the controller and, if possible, at the irrigation shutoff.
- Run the meter test.Record readings with all water off, then with the house shutoff closed.
- Walk the line route.Look for soggy patches, unusually green grass or sinking soil along the path from meter to house.
- Call for location if needed.A plumber can trace the line rather than digging on guesswork.
Contacts
- Water
- Fullerton's city water utility
- Gas
- SoCalGas; call 911 or SoCalGas from outside for a gas smell
- Permits
- City of Fullerton
- License lookup
- cslb.ca.gov
Questions to ask a plumber
- Where does my water service line run across the lot?
- Is the irrigation system leaking or tied into the main correctly?
- Would a camera inspection of the lateral help given the trees here?
Common questions
My yard has a soggy spot that never dries. Is it a leak?
It might be irrigation or the service line. A meter test with irrigation off and the house shutoff closed helps narrow it down.
Who is responsible for the line from the meter to the house?
Generally the property side is the owner's, but check with the city for how responsibility is divided at your address.
Does a longer lateral mean more root problems?
Not necessarily, but more length and more trees can mean more joints for roots to find.
General information for Golden Hills, not a quote or professional advice. In an emergency, call 911.