The housing

Villa Park is its own city, separate from Orange, with mostly single-family homes on generous lots. Much of the housing was built in the 1960s and 1970s, though there are both older and newer homes.

Homes of that era often sit on slab-on-grade foundations, sometimes with raised sections, and may have copper or galvanized supply lines and cast-iron or clay sewer laterals. After several decades, those materials are reaching the age when problems show up.

Common conditions

Era
Much of it 1960s and 1970s
Foundations
Often slab; some raised
Supply
Copper or galvanized
Laterals
Cast iron or clay; roots possible
Trees
Mature landscaping near sewer routes

Symptoms and likely next steps

  • IfWarm spot on the floor or unexplained water bill in a slab homeThenAsk about leak detection before opening flooring.
  • IfRecurring backupsThenCamera the lateral to check for roots or breaks.
  • IfRusty water and weak pressureThenCheck how much galvanized supply remains.

Who to contact

NeedContact
Water serviceConfirm the water provider for your Villa Park address
PermitsCity of Villa Park
Gas odorLeave and call 911 or SoCalGas from outside
License checkcslb.ca.gov

Questions for a plumber

  1. Is my supply copper, galvanized or a mix?
  2. Does my slab show signs of a hidden leak?
  3. What does the camera show in my lateral?
Map of Villa Park. It shows an area, not an office or a job site.

Common questions

Is Villa Park part of Orange?

No. Villa Park is a separate city that borders Orange.

Who issues plumbing permits in Villa Park?

Check with the City of Villa Park for permit requirements.

Are slab leaks common in homes of this era?

Pipe under or in a slab can leak as it ages. Watch for warm floor spots, sounds of running water and higher bills.

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