TO REPORT A SEWER BACKUP: Call (901) 867-4980 from 7am to 3:30pm weekdays OR (901) 229-1965 after-hours, holidays and weekends.
Sewer Laterals and Cleanouts (private) - A sewer lateral is a private line that carries all wastewater from the home to the Town's sewer main. Since it is a private line, the repair and maintenance is the responsibility of the homeowner. Sewer laterals have an access point called the 'cleanout' located on the homeowner's premises (often a white PVC pipe).In the Event of Sewer Blockage: If a sewer backup occurs in the home, the cap on the home's cleanout may be removed to relieve the pressure and help protect the home from sewage backflow. If a homeowner suspects a sewer blockage, it should be reported to the Arlington Public Works office at (901) 867-4980 for in inspection of the sewer main. While the homeowner is responsible for the line between the house and its connection to the major sewer line at the street, when a sewer stoppage occurs the source of the problem is not always immediately apparent.
HELP PREVENT SEWER BLOCKAGES
There are simple steps residents can take to help prevent grease buildup that adversely affects homes and businesses. The easiest way to prevent grease buildup and help prevent sewer blockages is to KEEP GREASE OUT OF THE SEWER SYSTEM.
Garbage disposals can be useful when properly used. However, grinding meat and dairy products or other cooked foods allows grease to be introduced into the sewer system. When grease accumulates in the sewer lines it eventually forms a blockage and may cause a backup. Most grease is a product of cooking and is usually found in food scraps, oils, butter or margarine, sauces, meat products and dairy products.
To help prevent grease buildup and reduce the threat of a sewer blockage follow these few steps:
1) Never pour grease down a sink drain, toilet or garbage disposal.
2) Dispose of grease and grease products by soaking them up with paper towels and disposing of them in the trash.
3) Before you wash dishes or put them in the dishwasher, scrape meat and food in the trash.
Following these few steps could save you a costly plumbing bill and help protect your home and the environment.