Responsibility for wastewater blockages and pipe repairs depends on where the fault is. As a licensed plumber, if you identify a fault in our system, and we confirmed it, you or the property owner may be able to claim reasonable costs.
Junctions and takeovers
We own the junction where the property owner's pipe meets our wastewater system. The property owner is responsible for the point of connection. They are responsible for clearing any tree roots that grow into the junction. The property owner is also responsible for any damage caused by tree roots or excavation at the point of connection.
If the junction was damaged by removing tree roots from point of connection
We may replace or repair the junction. The property owner must arrange for the area to be excavated so the junction is exposed and safe to work on.
We may replace the junction at no cost to the property owner. We call this a junction replacement without prejudice. We will not pay for any excavation costs.
Figure 1
Damaged junction – replace without prejudice. Click image to enlarge.
If you think the blockage happened because our junction failed
We must confirm it. Our maintenance crew will check the condition of the damaged junction. If we accept responsibility, we will fix or replace the junction, reconnect the pipes, backfill and restore the site. We call this a takeover.
- If our authorised representative approves the takeover, the licensed plumber or the property owner can submit a claim. Our team will assess theclaim based on rates we consider reasonable.
- If the private pipe has been removed, we may still replace the junction without prejudice.
However, we will not reimburse excavation or related costs. Our maintenance crew must confirm the damage for the work to be eligible for a takeover.
Figure 2
Damaged junction – takeover. Click image to enlarge.
Properties connecting to our sidelines
We own and maintain the sidelines shown on the service location print available at Sydney Water Tap in®.
If the property is connected to a sideline and we confirm our wastewater pipe is clear, we may try to clear the blockage from the property owner's inspection opening if there is no rodding point. This may reduce the cost and limit disruption.
If we clear the blockage, we'll use CCTV to find the cause.
Don't excavate until you have our approval
We won't reimburse excavation costs unless an authorised representative has given approval.
Vacuum and pressure systems
Only our maintenance crews and approved contractors can work on our vacuum wastewater and pressure sewer systems.
If the licensed plumber or the property owner carries out work, all warranties will be void. They may also be liable for future costs.
If the property is connected to a vacuum wastewater system or to pressure sewerage equipment that we own, ask the customer to call us on 13 20 90.
Points of connection deeper than 2.5 metres
If excavation is needed to repair a point of connection deeper than 2.5 metres, we will take over the repair.
We measure this depth when the system is installed and record it on our system. If the land has changed due to landscaping and the point of connection is now deeper than 2.5 metres, we will decide whether to accept or decline responsibility.
If you're unsure, call us on 13 20 90.
Figure 3
Example of unchanged surface level. Click image to enlarge.
Figure 4
Example of adjusted surface level. Click image to enlarge.
Figure 5
Example of shallow house service line. Click image to enlarge.
Relined pipes and junction cut-outs
If a blockage is caused because a recent relining job didn't reopen a live junction, we'll arrange for the relining contractor to return and open it.