Drawing the map
Use a sheet of paper or a floor plan from your home documents. A rough sketch is enough.
- Outline the house and lot.Draw the footprint of the house, the driveway and the street side. Mark which way is the street, since the sewer lateral usually runs that direction.
- Mark every drain.Add each sink, tub, shower, toilet, floor drain, washer standpipe and outdoor drain. Note which room each is in.
- Find the main water shutoff.It is often near where the water line enters the house or at the meter box near the street. Mark it and note what tool, if any, it needs.
- Note fixture valves.Mark the supply valves under sinks and behind toilets, and test that they turn.
- Locate the sewer cleanout.Walk the side of the house nearest the bathrooms and the path toward the street. Mark any capped pipe or round lid you find.
- Add trees and hardscape.Mark large trees, including parkway trees, and any concrete or pavers between the house and the street. They matter if the lateral ever needs work.
Shutoff and access record
| Item | Location | Tested on | Notes |
|---|---|---|---|
| Main water shutoff | |||
| Water heater shutoff | |||
| Kitchen sink valves | |||
| Toilet supply valves | |||
| Sewer cleanout | Do not open during a backup | ||
| Washer valves |
Before you file the map away
- Photograph the cleanout and the main shutoff with something for scale
- Store a copy where everyone in the house can find it
- Share it with anyone who house-sits or rents the home
- Update it after any remodel, repipe or sewer repair
- Replace a cracked or missing cleanout cap you find while mapping
Useful to know in Placentia
- Typical foundation
- Many older homes are slab-on-grade, so drains run under the floor
- Older laterals
- Often clay or cast iron from the original construction
- Missing cleanouts
- Some older homes have none outside; note that on the map
- Public side of the sewer
- Check with the City of Placentia about where it begins
Common questions
What if I cannot find a cleanout?
Note that on the map. A plumber can reach the main by pulling a toilet or through a roof vent, and may suggest adding a cleanout later.
Is the meter box shutoff mine to use?
Many homes rely on a house-side valve for that. If you are unsure whether you may operate a valve at the meter, ask your water provider.
Should I mark where the lateral runs?
If you know it from a camera inspection with locating, yes. Otherwise, note the likely direction toward the street.
General information for Placentia, not a quote or professional advice. In an emergency, call 911.