What is a sewer cleanout and why do I need one?

A cleanout is a capped access pipe on the sewer line that lets a plumber run a cable or camera to clear clogs without cutting into the line. Houston notes cleanouts are typically outside the foundation on the sewer service line, and some are near the property line. They also help find where a blockage is: if the house backs up but the cleanout is dry, the clog is likely in the home's plumbing, while a full or overflowing cleanout at the property line points to the line further downstream. Plumbing codes require cleanouts at certain locations, so your plumber and inspector will set them to local code.

Check your local rule. This varies by state, county or city. Your permitting office has the final word; the official lookup pages below show you who that is.

Sources

• Wastewater FAQsCity of Houston Public Works