Sewer Line Replacement in Highland, CA

Local conditions in Highland

Highland sits at the southern base of the San Bernardino Mountains and grew up around citrus groves and the railroads, which shows in its range of housing. Point2Homes data puts the median year built at about 1983, with roughly 44 percent of homes built before 1980 and the 1980s and 1990s as the busiest building decades. Older houses in areas like the Highland Historic District along Palm Avenue are the likeliest to have clay or cast iron sewer pipe that cracks and admits roots at many joints. Homes from the 1980s and later usually have plastic pipe, where problems more often come from settling or root entry at a single joint.

East Valley Water District (EVWD) handles sewer collection in Highland where it's available. City plan-check rules require structures to connect to sewer where available, subject to EVWD review, so check with EVWD if you're unsure what your property ties into. Permits for plumbing work go through the City of Highland Building & Safety Division at 27215 Base Line St., (909) 864-8732 extension 232.

Comparing approaches

Signs to watch for

• Main-line backups that return after clearing
• Toilets bubbling when the tub or washer drains
• Sewer odor in the yard
• Damp, sunken or unusually green ground along the line
• Slow drains throughout the house

Timing and seasonal notes

Highland's position against the mountains means winter storms can bring heavy rain, and an open trench in saturated soil is slower and messier to work. Dry months are easier for excavation, though a line that's actively backing up shouldn't wait. Ask the plumber how long drains will be out of service, when the city inspection fits into the schedule, and whether a trenchless method could keep the yard mostly intact.