Sewer Line Repair in Moreno Valley, CA

Sewer service in Moreno Valley

Moreno Valley came together in 1984 from three communities, Sunnymead, Edgemont and Moreno, and its sewer map still reflects that. According to the City's General Plan utilities study, Eastern Municipal Water District (EMWD) is responsible for wastewater collection and treatment across most of the city and operates the Moreno Valley Regional Water Reclamation Facility. Edgemont Community Services District handles sewer in a western area. If you are not sure which agency serves your street, your bill will say.

Housing here is middle-aged rather than old: city-stats.com puts the median year built at 1988. That means many laterals are plastic pipe that has been in the ground for three decades or more, long enough for root intrusion at joints, settled bedding and bellies where waste collects. Slab-on-grade construction is standard, so the building drain usually runs under the floor before it exits to the yard.

Repair options at a glance

Signs the problem is the sewer line

• Water rises in the shower when a toilet is flushed
• Gurgling from floor-level drains
• Repeat clogs at the same fixture after cleaning
• An odor or a soggy patch over the line in the yard

Timing and seasonal notes

Dry summers push tree roots toward any moisture they can find, and a weeping joint in a lateral is an easy target. Heavy winter storms are when the damage tends to show, because wet ground and extra flow expose a line that was barely keeping up. Plan inspections and repairs for dry weeks when yards are easier to open. For a sewer overflow in the street, EMWD's emergency line is 1-800-698-0400 or 951-928-3777 ext. 6265. Repairs that need a permit go through Moreno Valley Building & Safety, which takes applications online through SimpliCITY.