Sewer Lateral Repair Program

In April of 1999, Ballwin voters approved the establishment of a $28.00 annual fee to be collected with the Real Estate property tax.  The fees collected are deposited into a sewer lateral repair program fund, designated only for the repair of sewer laterals.  In the first few years of the program, we have repaired an average of 100 sewer laterals each year before the money in the fund is exhausted.

The large number of applications and the demand for sewer lateral repairs has exceeded funding during the first 3 years of the program.  As a result, the Board of Aldermen has instituted a cap of $3000 per job in order to be able to do more repairs each year.  In addition, when funds are depleted for the current year, applicants will be put on the waiting list for the following year.

The program was never designed to be a sewer lateral warranty program. It is designed to help residents with problems that if not repaired, would be unable to live in their home due to sewer failure. As such, damage due to normal wear and usage is not covered if the lateral is still functioning.

How do I find out if I qualify?

Complete a Sewer Lateral Repair Program application form, available online or at the Ballwin Government Center.  There is $150.00 application fee.

Payment or Reimbursement

If money is available from the program fund, the contractor will bill the City directly for the repair.  If the repair exceeds the $3000 cap, the contractor will bill the homeowner for the excess.

If program funds have been exhausted for the year, the homeowner must pay the contractor directly for the repair and homeowner will be reimbursed up to $3000 when funds become available.  When you make an application for a sewer lateral repair, you will be informed as to the availability of funds.

Payments cover:

• Excavation and repair of the failed section of sewer lateral.
• Backfill and restoration of the backfill consisting of grading into a mound to allow for settlement and seeding and straw.
• Removal and hauling away construction and pavement materials that were removed to make way for the repair.
• Patching of private driveways, sidewalks, public sidewalks, curbs and street pavement.

*** Please Note: Most municipalities, cities, and counties with sewer lateral programs limit reimbursements and expenses to the amount available in the Fund at any time. Some offer waiting lists and reimbursements out of the next year’s Fund revenue. Funds typically are on a first-come, first-served basis. You should always check on fund availability. Additionally, most municipalities will require proof of PAID real estate tax bills, city fees, taxes, including personal property taxes, and trash fees if applicable for eligibility to participate in any available programs.

Sewer Lateral Repair Program

In April of 1999, Ballwin voters approved the establishment of a $28.00 annual fee to be collected with the Real Estate property tax.  The fees collected are deposited into a sewer lateral repair program fund, designated only for the repair of sewer laterals.  In the first few years of the program, we have repaired an average of 100 sewer laterals each year before the money in the fund is exhausted.

The large number of applications and the demand for sewer lateral repairs has exceeded funding during the first 3 years of the program.  As a result, the Board of Aldermen has instituted a cap of $3000 per job in order to be able to do more repairs each year.  In addition, when funds are depleted for the current year, applicants will be put on the waiting list for the following year.

The program was never designed to be a sewer lateral warranty program. It is designed to help residents with problems that if not repaired, would be unable to live in their home due to sewer failure. As such, damage due to normal wear and usage is not covered if the lateral is still functioning.

How do I find out if I qualify?

Complete a Sewer Lateral Repair Program application form, available online or at the Ballwin Government Center.  There is $150.00 application fee.

Payment or Reimbursement

If money is available from the program fund, the contractor will bill the City directly for the repair.  If the repair exceeds the $3000 cap, the contractor will bill the homeowner for the excess.

If program funds have been exhausted for the year, the homeowner must pay the contractor directly for the repair and homeowner will be reimbursed up to $3000 when funds become available.  When you make an application for a sewer lateral repair, you will be informed as to the availability of funds.

Payments cover:

• Excavation and repair of the failed section of sewer lateral.
• Backfill and restoration of the backfill consisting of grading into a mound to allow for settlement and seeding and straw.
• Removal and hauling away construction and pavement materials that were removed to make way for the repair.
• Patching of private driveways, sidewalks, public sidewalks, curbs and street pavement.

*** Please Note: Most municipalities, cities, and counties with sewer lateral programs limit reimbursements and expenses to the amount available in the Fund at any time. Some offer waiting lists and reimbursements out of the next year’s Fund revenue. Funds typically are on a first-come, first-served basis. You should always check on fund availability. Additionally, most municipalities will require proof of PAID real estate tax bills, city fees, taxes, including personal property taxes, and trash fees if applicable for eligibility to participate in any available programs.

*** Please Note: Most municipalities, cities, and counties with sewer lateral programs limit reimbursements and expenses to the amount available in the Fund at any time. Some offer waiting lists and reimbursements out of the next year’s Fund revenue. Funds typically are on a first-come, first-served basis. You should always check on fund availability. Additionally, most municipalities will require proof of PAID real estate tax bills, city fees, taxes, including personal property taxes, and trash fees if applicable for eligibility to participate in any available programs.

*** Please Note: Most municipalities, cities, and counties with sewer lateral programs limit reimbursements and expenses to the amount available in the Fund at any time. Some offer waiting lists and reimbursements out of the next year’s Fund revenue. Funds typically are on a first-come, first-served basis. You should always check on fund availability. Additionally, most municipalities will require proof of PAID real estate tax bills, city fees, taxes, including personal property taxes, and trash fees if applicable for eligibility to participate in any available programs.

The City will contract for the repair of a defective lateral if after investigation, it is found to be defective due to causes beyond the control of the property owner. A sewer lateral is defined as the portion of the pipe which carries household wastes to the Metropolitan St. Louis Sewer District sewer main and which lies between the house connection and the sewer main. Before submitting the Sanitary Sewer Lateral Application, it is the responsibility of the Homeowner to have the lateral in-line video inspected and marked by flags or paint marks. The video must have audio narration describing the problem and location of the problem on the lateral, name and address of the house and the date the video was made. The Homeowner must also furnish a report and/or receipt from the plumbing or sewer service that cabled or jetted the lateral in an attempt to clear the lateral. The cost of the in-line video and locating of the lateral is to be paid by the Homeowner.

A fee to cover these services for the City will be assessed at the rate of $28.00 per year. The fee is included on the resident’s annual St. Louis County Real Estate Tax Bill.

*** Please Note: Most municipalities, cities, and counties with sewer lateral programs limit reimbursements and expenses to the amount available in the Fund at any time. Some offer waiting lists and reimbursements out of the next year’s Fund revenue. Funds typically are on a first-come, first-served basis. You should always check on fund availability. Additionally, most municipalities will require proof of PAID real estate tax bills, city fees, taxes, including personal property taxes, and trash fees if applicable for eligibility to participate in any available programs.

The City will contract for the repair of a defective lateral if after investigation, it is found to be defective due to causes beyond the control of the property owner. A sewer lateral is defined as the portion of the pipe which carries household wastes to the Metropolitan St. Louis Sewer District sewer main and which lies between the house connection and the sewer main. Before submitting the Sanitary Sewer Lateral Application, it is the responsibility of the Homeowner to have the lateral in-line video inspected and marked by flags or paint marks. The video must have audio narration describing the problem and location of the problem on the lateral, name and address of the house and the date the video was made. The Homeowner must also furnish a report and/or receipt from the plumbing or sewer service that cabled or jetted the lateral in an attempt to clear the lateral. The cost of the in-line video and locating of the lateral is to be paid by the Homeowner.

A fee to cover these services for the City will be assessed at the rate of $28.00 per year. The fee is included on the resident’s annual St. Louis County Real Estate Tax Bill.

*** Please Note: Most municipalities, cities, and counties with sewer lateral programs limit reimbursements and expenses to the amount available in the Fund at any time. Some offer waiting lists and reimbursements out of the next year’s Fund revenue. Funds typically are on a first-come, first-served basis. You should always check on fund availability. Additionally, most municipalities will require proof of PAID real estate tax bills, city fees, taxes, including personal property taxes, and trash fees if applicable for eligibility to participate in any available programs.

The owner of a single family home, townhouse, duplex, condominium, or a multi-family building
containing not more than six (6) dwelling units, may recover one hundred percent (100%) of the
eligible costs for repairing a defective residential sanitary sewer lateral serving the property of the owner, in compliance with the Amended Ordinance, City’s policy and procedures governing this
program.

The following costs are eligible for reimbursement under the program to the extent that they are
damaged and/or removed to accomplish the repair of the sanitary sewer lateral. No individual
repair shall be charged against the fund in an amount in excess of Four Thousand Dollars
($4,000.00). Any costs in excess of this amount shall be the responsibility of the property owner.

• The cost of excavation and repair or replacement of the defective sanitary sewer lateral.
  This program does not cover excavation and repair under any structure, including
  the home.
• The program will cover only sanitary sewer laterals that connect to the main sewer
  system. The program is responsible for covering the repaired sewer lateral site with clean
  fill soil, including seeding the area.

Any property owner who is in arrears to the City for any fees, taxes or other monies and is
delinquent in paying the tax bill is ineligible to participate in the program or receive any
reimbursement from the program until all past due payments have been received in full and tax
bill is current.

Commercial and industrial properties cannot participate in the program. Multi-family properties
that contain more than six (6) dwelling units per property are not eligible for this program.

*** Please Note: Most municipalities, cities, and counties with sewer lateral programs limit reimbursements and expenses to the amount available in the Fund at any time. Some offer waiting lists and reimbursements out of the next year’s Fund revenue. Funds typically are on a first-come, first-served basis. You should always check on fund availability. Additionally, most municipalities will require proof of PAID real estate tax bills, city fees, taxes, including personal property taxes, and trash fees if applicable for eligibility to participate in any available programs.

The owner of a single family home, townhouse, duplex, condominium, or a multi-family building
containing not more than six (6) dwelling units, may recover one hundred percent (100%) of the
eligible costs for repairing a defective residential sanitary sewer lateral serving the property of the owner, in compliance with the Amended Ordinance, City’s policy and procedures governing this
program.

The following costs are eligible for reimbursement under the program to the extent that they are
damaged and/or removed to accomplish the repair of the sanitary sewer lateral. No individual
repair shall be charged against the fund in an amount in excess of Four Thousand Dollars
($4,000.00). Any costs in excess of this amount shall be the responsibility of the property owner.

• The cost of excavation and repair or replacement of the defective sanitary sewer lateral.
  This program does not cover excavation and repair under any structure, including
  the home.
• The program will cover only sanitary sewer laterals that connect to the main sewer
  system. The program is responsible for covering the repaired sewer lateral site with clean
  fill soil, including seeding the area.

Any property owner who is in arrears to the City for any fees, taxes or other monies and is
delinquent in paying the tax bill is ineligible to participate in the program or receive any
reimbursement from the program until all past due payments have been received in full and tax
bill is current.

Commercial and industrial properties cannot participate in the program. Multi-family properties
that contain more than six (6) dwelling units per property are not eligible for this program.

*** Please Note: Most municipalities, cities, and counties with sewer lateral programs limit reimbursements and expenses to the amount available in the Fund at any time. Some offer waiting lists and reimbursements out of the next year’s Fund revenue. Funds typically are on a first-come, first-served basis. You should always check on fund availability. Additionally, most municipalities will require proof of PAID real estate tax bills, city fees, taxes, including personal property taxes, and trash fees if applicable for eligibility to participate in any available programs.

The sewer lateral repair program applies to a residential property having six or less dwelling units. Claims under this program may only be made for failures and defects that occur subsequent to January 1, 2003.

What is considered defective:

A sewer lateral is considered defective when there is sufficient evidence, to the satisfaction of the City, to prove that the lateral is damaged. Such evidence may include, but is not limited to, a TV inspection, MSD dye test, plumber’s verification and sketches.

If a property owner is experiencing a blockage of the sewer lateral, the property owner must first contact a plumber or drain-layer licensed by St. Louis County to have the line cabled. If cabling does not result in clearing the line, the property owner must then have a televised inspection performed and a sketch prepared showing the approximate location of the defect. After the television inspection and sketch is completed, the property owner should contact the City of Black Jack to obtain an application and instructions for participating in the program. If the property owner wants to make a claim under this repair program, the property owner shall deliver to the City of Black Jack a completed application, a copy of the paid cabling bill, the sewer lateral television inspection video, sketch and any other information requested by the Department of Public Works.

Eligibility:

If the City determines eligibility, the City’s Public Works Department shall provide the property owner the specifications for the repair/replacement of the sewer lateral. The owner must then obtain at least three (3) bids from drain layers licensed by St. Louis County, which bids shall be consistent with the City’s specifications for the sewer lateral replacement/repair. The City reserves the right to reject any and all bids received from the property owner which have not been obtained from a drain layer licensed by St. Louis County and/or which are not responsive to the City’s specifications. The sewer lateral repair/replacement project shall be awarded to the lowest responsible bidder. The City may, at any time, in its sole discretion, obtain bids for the repair/replacement work from a drain layer licensed by St. Louis County for the purpose of comparison and to determine current market conditions or for any other City purposes.

Once the property owner’s application is approved and a bid accepted, the property owner shall schedule and shall be responsible for coordinating all repairs/replacements of the sewer lateral line using the drain layer whose bid was accepted. The property owner shall pay all of the costs of the
repair/replacement not covered by this repair program.

What is covered:

The repair program covers excavation, repair or replacement of the sewer lateral, backfilling,
seeding and strawing. The top six inches of the backfill will be topsoil. Any additional work desired by the property owner will be done at the property owner’s expense. The repair program will also cover the cost to replace sidewalk, driveway and street pavement removed to accomplish the repair. The cost of replacing all other improvements removed to accomplish the repair shall be the sole responsibility of the property owner.

The City will make the final decisions regarding all aspects of this repair program, including whether or not to repair or replace a sewer lateral, eligibility of expenses, responsibility of bidders, hazardous conditions, etc. The City has no obligation or responsibility for the performance of the contractor and no responsibility for any damages caused to the property owner’s property resulting from sewer lateral defects or the activities of the contractor on the property.

*** Please Note: Most municipalities, cities, and counties with sewer lateral programs limit reimbursements and expenses to the amount available in the Fund at any time. Some offer waiting lists and reimbursements out of the next year’s Fund revenue. Funds typically are on a first-come, first-served basis. You should always check on fund availability. Additionally, most municipalities will require proof of PAID real estate tax bills, city fees, taxes, including personal property taxes, and trash fees if applicable for eligibility to participate in any available programs.

The sewer lateral repair program applies to a residential property having six or less dwelling units. Claims under this program may only be made for failures and defects that occur subsequent to January 1, 2003.

What is considered defective:

A sewer lateral is considered defective when there is sufficient evidence, to the satisfaction of the City, to prove that the lateral is damaged. Such evidence may include, but is not limited to, a TV inspection, MSD dye test, plumber’s verification and sketches.

If a property owner is experiencing a blockage of the sewer lateral, the property owner must first contact a plumber or drain-layer licensed by St. Louis County to have the line cabled. If cabling does not result in clearing the line, the property owner must then have a televised inspection performed and a sketch prepared showing the approximate location of the defect. After the television inspection and sketch is completed, the property owner should contact the City of Black Jack to obtain an application and instructions for participating in the program. If the property owner wants to make a claim under this repair program, the property owner shall deliver to the City of Black Jack a completed application, a copy of the paid cabling bill, the sewer lateral television inspection video, sketch and any other information requested by the Department of Public Works.

Eligibility:

If the City determines eligibility, the City’s Public Works Department shall provide the property owner the specifications for the repair/replacement of the sewer lateral. The owner must then obtain at least three (3) bids from drain layers licensed by St. Louis County, which bids shall be consistent with the City’s specifications for the sewer lateral replacement/repair. The City reserves the right to reject any and all bids received from the property owner which have not been obtained from a drain layer licensed by St. Louis County and/or which are not responsive to the City’s specifications. The sewer lateral repair/replacement project shall be awarded to the lowest responsible bidder. The City may, at any time, in its sole discretion, obtain bids for the repair/replacement work from a drain layer licensed by St. Louis County for the purpose of comparison and to determine current market conditions or for any other City purposes.

Once the property owner’s application is approved and a bid accepted, the property owner shall schedule and shall be responsible for coordinating all repairs/replacements of the sewer lateral line using the drain layer whose bid was accepted. The property owner shall pay all of the costs of the
repair/replacement not covered by this repair program.

What is covered:

The repair program covers excavation, repair or replacement of the sewer lateral, backfilling,
seeding and strawing. The top six inches of the backfill will be topsoil. Any additional work desired by the property owner will be done at the property owner’s expense. The repair program will also cover the cost to replace sidewalk, driveway and street pavement removed to accomplish the repair. The cost of replacing all other improvements removed to accomplish the repair shall be the sole responsibility of the property owner.

The City will make the final decisions regarding all aspects of this repair program, including whether or not to repair or replace a sewer lateral, eligibility of expenses, responsibility of bidders, hazardous conditions, etc. The City has no obligation or responsibility for the performance of the contractor and no responsibility for any damages caused to the property owner’s property resulting from sewer lateral defects or the activities of the contractor on the property.

*** Please Note: Most municipalities, cities, and counties with sewer lateral programs limit reimbursements and expenses to the amount available in the Fund at any time. Some offer waiting lists and reimbursements out of the next year’s Fund revenue. Funds typically are on a first-come, first-served basis. You should always check on fund availability. Additionally, most municipalities will require proof of PAID real estate tax bills, city fees, taxes, including personal property taxes, and trash fees if applicable for eligibility to participate in any available programs.

Who is covered:

The City of Brentwood’s sewer lateral repair program applies to single-family residential and to single-family fee simple ownership. The service is not available to commercial or industrial property (as determined by the use of the land). The property owner of a townhouse, duplex, condominium, or a multi-family building containing not more than six (6) dwelling units, is eligible to participate in compliance with the City’s policy and procedures governing this program. This program is not available to apartment buildings.

Lateral Program:

A defective lateral sewer service line is defined as a line that is not functioning properly.

The financial responsibility for contracted repairs to a covered defective sewer lateral approved by the City is limited to closed-circuit television inspection (CCTV) services, excavation, repair or replacement of the defective portion of the lateral line, and backfilling in a workmanlike manner. It will be the responsibility of the property owner to restore the landscaping and ground cover including grass in whatever manner that is consistent with any applicable property standards of the City the owner chooses. The City will not be responsible for restoration of the affected yard to the grass or landscaped surfaces, i.e., bushes, shrubs, trees, and plants.

It will be the responsibility of the City to replace sidewalks, driveways and streets, which are removed to accomplish the repair. In the event it is necessary to remove accessory structures such as fences, retaining walls, and the like, the property owner will be obligated to remove and restore such accessory structures to their pre-existing condition. In the event that obstacles such as yard sheds, garages, etc. are in the path of the sewer lateral and lie over the damaged portion of the lateral, the City reserves the right to require rerouting of the lateral to avoid the necessity of structure removal. In the event that rerouting is impractical, the City and the property owner will meet to discuss a solution equitable to both parties.

The Board of Aldermen updated the sewer lateral repair program in February 2019. Resolution 1084.2 involves these changes: Cabling/cleaning blockages is now the property owner’s responsibility. The cost ceiling for approved repairs is limited to $3,500 per calendar year.

Lateral Program document Links

City of Brentwood Sewer Lateral Repair Program (PDF)

City of Brentwood Residential Sanitary Sewer Lateral Repair Policy & Procedures (PDF)

Resolution 1084.2: Administration of City of Brentwood’s Sewer Lateral Repair Program – Adopted February 2019 (PDF)

Brentwood Forest Condominium Association Sewer Lateral Program Participation Master List (PDF)

*** Please Note: Most municipalities, cities, and counties with sewer lateral programs limit reimbursements and expenses to the amount available in the Fund at any time. Some offer waiting lists and reimbursements out of the next year’s Fund revenue. Funds typically are on a first-come, first-served basis. You should always check on fund availability. Additionally, most municipalities will require proof of PAID real estate tax bills, city fees, taxes, including personal property taxes, and trash fees if applicable for eligibility to participate in any available programs.

Who is covered:

The City of Brentwood’s sewer lateral repair program applies to single-family residential and to single-family fee simple ownership. The service is not available to commercial or industrial property (as determined by the use of the land). The property owner of a townhouse, duplex, condominium, or a multi-family building containing not more than six (6) dwelling units, is eligible to participate in compliance with the City’s policy and procedures governing this program. This program is not available to apartment buildings.

Lateral Program:

A defective lateral sewer service line is defined as a line that is not functioning properly.

The financial responsibility for contracted repairs to a covered defective sewer lateral approved by the City is limited to closed-circuit television inspection (CCTV) services, excavation, repair or replacement of the defective portion of the lateral line, and backfilling in a workmanlike manner. It will be the responsibility of the property owner to restore the landscaping and ground cover including grass in whatever manner that is consistent with any applicable property standards of the City the owner chooses. The City will not be responsible for restoration of the affected yard to the grass or landscaped surfaces, i.e., bushes, shrubs, trees, and plants.

It will be the responsibility of the City to replace sidewalks, driveways and streets, which are removed to accomplish the repair. In the event it is necessary to remove accessory structures such as fences, retaining walls, and the like, the property owner will be obligated to remove and restore such accessory structures to their pre-existing condition. In the event that obstacles such as yard sheds, garages, etc. are in the path of the sewer lateral and lie over the damaged portion of the lateral, the City reserves the right to require rerouting of the lateral to avoid the necessity of structure removal. In the event that rerouting is impractical, the City and the property owner will meet to discuss a solution equitable to both parties.

The Board of Aldermen updated the sewer lateral repair program in February 2019. Resolution 1084.2 involves these changes: Cabling/cleaning blockages is now the property owner’s responsibility. The cost ceiling for approved repairs is limited to $3,500 per calendar year.

Lateral Program document Links

City of Brentwood Sewer Lateral Repair Program (PDF)

City of Brentwood Residential Sanitary Sewer Lateral Repair Policy & Procedures (PDF)

Resolution 1084.2: Administration of City of Brentwood’s Sewer Lateral Repair Program – Adopted February 2019 (PDF)

Brentwood Forest Condominium Association Sewer Lateral Program Participation Master List (PDF)

*** Please Note: Most municipalities, cities, and counties with sewer lateral programs limit reimbursements and expenses to the amount available in the Fund at any time. Some offer waiting lists and reimbursements out of the next year’s Fund revenue. Funds typically are on a first-come, first-served basis. You should always check on fund availability. Additionally, most municipalities will require proof of PAID real estate tax bills, city fees, taxes, including personal property taxes, and trash fees if applicable for eligibility to participate in any available programs.

The program will cover the cost of certain repairs up to a maximum of $15,000. Any costs in excess of this amount will be the responsibility of the property owner. A non-refundable application fee of $100 shall apply to the cost of any repair undertaken in conjunction with this program.

If a property owner is experiencing a problem with their lateral sewer service line, the owner must first contact a licensed plumbing company or a licensed drainlayer to have the line cabled. (Sometimes the problem is not with the line itself, but may have become clogged by materials in the line.) As a common home maintenance expense, the cost of this cabling is not reimbursable by the City. If the problem is not resolved by cabling of the line, the owner can obtain a Residential Sanitary Sewer Lateral Repair Program Application at the Chesterfield City Hall located at 690 Chesterfield Parkway West between the hours of 8:30 a.m. and 5:00 p.m., Monday through Friday.

Per Missouri law, the program does not apply to those residential buildings with more than (6) units.
If you have any questions regarding the Residential Sanitary Sewer Lateral Repair Program, please contact the Department of Public Works at (636) 537-4762.

*** Please Note: Most municipalities, cities, and counties with sewer lateral programs limit reimbursements and expenses to the amount available in the Fund at any time. Some offer waiting lists and reimbursements out of the next year’s Fund revenue. Funds typically are on a first-come, first-served basis. You should always check on fund availability. Additionally, most municipalities will require proof of PAID real estate tax bills, city fees, taxes, including personal property taxes, and trash fees if applicable for eligibility to participate in any available programs.

The program will cover the cost of certain repairs up to a maximum of $15,000. Any costs in excess of this amount will be the responsibility of the property owner. A non-refundable application fee of $100 shall apply to the cost of any repair undertaken in conjunction with this program.

If a property owner is experiencing a problem with their lateral sewer service line, the owner must first contact a licensed plumbing company or a licensed drainlayer to have the line cabled. (Sometimes the problem is not with the line itself, but may have become clogged by materials in the line.) As a common home maintenance expense, the cost of this cabling is not reimbursable by the City. If the problem is not resolved by cabling of the line, the owner can obtain a Residential Sanitary Sewer Lateral Repair Program Application at the Chesterfield City Hall located at 690 Chesterfield Parkway West between the hours of 8:30 a.m. and 5:00 p.m., Monday through Friday.

Per Missouri law, the program does not apply to those residential buildings with more than (6) units.
If you have any questions regarding the Residential Sanitary Sewer Lateral Repair Program, please contact the Department of Public Works at (636) 537-4762.

*** Please Note: Most municipalities, cities, and counties with sewer lateral programs limit reimbursements and expenses to the amount available in the Fund at any time. Some offer waiting lists and reimbursements out of the next year’s Fund revenue. Funds typically are on a first-come, first-served basis. You should always check on fund availability. Additionally, most municipalities will require proof of PAID real estate tax bills, city fees, taxes, including personal property taxes, and trash fees if applicable for eligibility to participate in any available programs.

The City of Clayton ’s Residential Sewer Lateral Repair Program will reimburse property owners for eligible expenses relating to the repair of a residential sewer lateral. Please contact Daneen Schlereth at 314-290-8540 with any questions.

A sanitary sewer lateral is defined as the sanitary sewer pipe which extends from five (5) feet outside of the building foundation wall or exterior wall to its connection with the sanitary sewer main in the street or sewer easement. It does not include a sewer line located under any part of any building or structure. A sanitary sewer lateral may be located in a front, side, or rear yard.

The owner of a single family home, townhouse, duplex, condominium, or a multi-family building containing not more than six (6) dwelling units, may recover one hundred percent (100%) of the eligible costs (up to $3,000), for repairing a defective residential sanitary sewer lateral serving the property of the owner, in compliance with the City’s policy and procedures governing this program.

Below are link to the reimbursement application as well as the policy which contains property owner responsibilities, reimbursement eligible items, specific instructions, and the steps of the reimbursement process.

• Sewer Lateral Repair Program Application
• Sewer Lateral Program Policy

A complete application for participation in the program shall include:

• Certification completed by a Licensed Master Plumber/Drainlayer verifying the need for the sanitary sewer lateral repair, and the location of the repair.
• A DVD showing the need for repair.
• A paid tax receipt; for proof that the property owner has paid into the program.
• A plumbing permit.
• A Right-of-Way Permit, if work will be completed on the City’s Right-of-Way.

All repairs shall be permitted through the City of Clayton and be in-compliance with Metropolitan St. Louis Sewer District regulations.  The City may periodically amend these guidelines except as state law may restrict them.

*** Please Note: Most municipalities, cities, and counties with sewer lateral programs limit reimbursements and expenses to the amount available in the Fund at any time. Some offer waiting lists and reimbursements out of the next year’s Fund revenue. Funds typically are on a first-come, first-served basis. You should always check on fund availability. Additionally, most municipalities will require proof of PAID real estate tax bills, city fees, taxes, including personal property taxes, and trash fees if applicable for eligibility to participate in any available programs.

The City of Clayton ’s Residential Sewer Lateral Repair Program will reimburse property owners for eligible expenses relating to the repair of a residential sewer lateral. Please contact Daneen Schlereth at 314-290-8540 with any questions.

A sanitary sewer lateral is defined as the sanitary sewer pipe which extends from five (5) feet outside of the building foundation wall or exterior wall to its connection with the sanitary sewer main in the street or sewer easement. It does not include a sewer line located under any part of any building or structure. A sanitary sewer lateral may be located in a front, side, or rear yard.

The owner of a single family home, townhouse, duplex, condominium, or a multi-family building containing not more than six (6) dwelling units, may recover one hundred percent (100%) of the eligible costs (up to $3,000), for repairing a defective residential sanitary sewer lateral serving the property of the owner, in compliance with the City’s policy and procedures governing this program.

Below are link to the reimbursement application as well as the policy which contains property owner responsibilities, reimbursement eligible items, specific instructions, and the steps of the reimbursement process.

• Sewer Lateral Repair Program Application
• Sewer Lateral Program Policy

A complete application for participation in the program shall include:

• Certification completed by a Licensed Master Plumber/Drainlayer verifying the need for the sanitary sewer lateral repair, and the location of the repair.
• A DVD showing the need for repair.
• A paid tax receipt; for proof that the property owner has paid into the program.
• A plumbing permit.
• A Right-of-Way Permit, if work will be completed on the City’s Right-of-Way.

All repairs shall be permitted through the City of Clayton and be in-compliance with Metropolitan St. Louis Sewer District regulations.  The City may periodically amend these guidelines except as state law may restrict them.

*** Please Note: Most municipalities, cities, and counties with sewer lateral programs limit reimbursements and expenses to the amount available in the Fund at any time. Some offer waiting lists and reimbursements out of the next year’s Fund revenue. Funds typically are on a first-come, first-served basis. You should always check on fund availability. Additionally, most municipalities will require proof of PAID real estate tax bills, city fees, taxes, including personal property taxes, and trash fees if applicable for eligibility to participate in any available programs.

Single family home, a duplex or an apartment development containing not more than six (6) dwelling units may recover one hundred percent (100%) of the authorized costs, up to a maximum of $10,000, in repairing defective sanitary sewer lateral service lines serving the property of the owner. Property owners will be responsible for 50% of repair costs in excess of $10,000. Notwithstanding, the total annual expenditures shall not exceed the amount budgeted for the sewer lateral fund for the current fiscal year.

A sanitary sewer lateral service line is a sewer line, which extends from outside the building
foundation wall or exterior wall to the sewer main in the street or sewer easement. It does not
include a sewer line located under any part of the building, including such structures as porches,
decks, etc…. A lateral sewer service line may be located in a front, side, or rear yard.

ELIGIBILITY

All residents are eligible for sanitary sewer lateral line cabling and a camera investigation of their sanitary sewer lateral line by the City if they meet any of the following criteria:

1. The resident has contracted with a cabling company, and that company cannot open the sanitary sewer lateral line. In this case, the City will contact its cabling contractor to attempt to open the sanitary sewer lateral line and perform a camera investigation. The cost to the resident for the initial cabling is not an eligible expense and shall be paid by the resident. The cost for the City to cable the line and perform the television inspection is an eligible expense and will be paid by the City.
2. The resident can provide receipts for three (3) sewer lateral cablings with the previous eighteen (18) months. In this case, the City will contact its cabling contractor to perform a cabling and camera investigation. The cost to the resident for the three (3) initial cablings is not reimbursable and shall be paid by the resident. The cost for the City to cable the line and perform a television inspection is an eligible expense and will be paid by the City.
3. The resident can provide a receipt for a cabling and camera investigation and the video of the camera investigation. The cost to the resident for the cabling and camera investigation is not reimbursable and shall be paid by the resident.
4. There are sinkholes or other visual evidence in the resident’s yard, which indicate, based upon City staff experience and/or MSD dye test, that the sanitary sewer lateral line may have a defect. In this case, the City will contact its cabling contractor to perform a cabling and camera investigation of the sanitary sewer lateral, which will be paid by the City.

WORK COVERED BY THE PROGRAM

This program only funds the following work:

1. Excavation, repair or replacement of the defective portion of the lateral sewer line, or removal of brick(s) in the line.
2. Installation of a yard cleanout (if needed).
3. Backfilling and compaction (by jetting, tamping, or other) of the disturbed portion of the site, rough graded, and covered with straw to minimize erosion.
4. The replacement or repair of sidewalks, driveways, and streets damaged or removed in order to accomplish the repair. Only the replacement of the portion of paved surface that must be removed or damaged to accomplish the sewer repair is covered under this program.

For more information:

Sewer Lateral Repair Policy – Revised June 14, 2018

*** Please Note: Most municipalities, cities, and counties with sewer lateral programs limit reimbursements and expenses to the amount available in the Fund at any time. Some offer waiting lists and reimbursements out of the next year’s Fund revenue. Funds typically are on a first-come, first-served basis. You should always check on fund availability. Additionally, most municipalities will require proof of PAID real estate tax bills, city fees, taxes, including personal property taxes, and trash fees if applicable for eligibility to participate in any available programs.

Single family home, a duplex or an apartment development containing not more than six (6) dwelling units may recover one hundred percent (100%) of the authorized costs, up to a maximum of $10,000, in repairing defective sanitary sewer lateral service lines serving the property of the owner. Property owners will be responsible for 50% of repair costs in excess of $10,000. Notwithstanding, the total annual expenditures shall not exceed the amount budgeted for the sewer lateral fund for the current fiscal year.

A sanitary sewer lateral service line is a sewer line, which extends from outside the building
foundation wall or exterior wall to the sewer main in the street or sewer easement. It does not
include a sewer line located under any part of the building, including such structures as porches,
decks, etc…. A lateral sewer service line may be located in a front, side, or rear yard.

ELIGIBILITY

All residents are eligible for sanitary sewer lateral line cabling and a camera investigation of their sanitary sewer lateral line by the City if they meet any of the following criteria:

1. The resident has contracted with a cabling company, and that company cannot open the sanitary sewer lateral line. In this case, the City will contact its cabling contractor to attempt to open the sanitary sewer lateral line and perform a camera investigation. The cost to the resident for the initial cabling is not an eligible expense and shall be paid by the resident. The cost for the City to cable the line and perform the television inspection is an eligible expense and will be paid by the City.
2. The resident can provide receipts for three (3) sewer lateral cablings with the previous eighteen (18) months. In this case, the City will contact its cabling contractor to perform a cabling and camera investigation. The cost to the resident for the three (3) initial cablings is not reimbursable and shall be paid by the resident. The cost for the City to cable the line and perform a television inspection is an eligible expense and will be paid by the City.
3. The resident can provide a receipt for a cabling and camera investigation and the video of the camera investigation. The cost to the resident for the cabling and camera investigation is not reimbursable and shall be paid by the resident.
4. There are sinkholes or other visual evidence in the resident’s yard, which indicate, based upon City staff experience and/or MSD dye test, that the sanitary sewer lateral line may have a defect. In this case, the City will contact its cabling contractor to perform a cabling and camera investigation of the sanitary sewer lateral, which will be paid by the City.

WORK COVERED BY THE PROGRAM

This program only funds the following work:

1. Excavation, repair or replacement of the defective portion of the lateral sewer line, or removal of brick(s) in the line.
2. Installation of a yard cleanout (if needed).
3. Backfilling and compaction (by jetting, tamping, or other) of the disturbed portion of the site, rough graded, and covered with straw to minimize erosion.
4. The replacement or repair of sidewalks, driveways, and streets damaged or removed in order to accomplish the repair. Only the replacement of the portion of paved surface that must be removed or damaged to accomplish the sewer repair is covered under this program.

For more information:

Sewer Lateral Repair Policy – Revised June 14, 2018

*** Please Note: Most municipalities, cities, and counties with sewer lateral programs limit reimbursements and expenses to the amount available in the Fund at any time. Some offer waiting lists and reimbursements out of the next year’s Fund revenue. Funds typically are on a first-come, first-served basis. You should always check on fund availability. Additionally, most municipalities will require proof of PAID real estate tax bills, city fees, taxes, including personal property taxes, and trash fees if applicable for eligibility to participate in any available programs.

No sewer lateral insurance program.

No sewer lateral insurance program.

Process:

Before the City’s insurance policy will cover repairs, the homeowner needs to take a few steps to make sure the sewer lateral is indeed collapsed or damaged, rather than just clogged.

1. Call a plumbing or sewer cleaning service and have them clean the sewer lateral line.  The homeowner is responsible for the cost of this service call.  If the cleaning solves the problem, the sewer lateral is fine.  If it does not solve the problem, the plumber should state the problem on the homeowner’s invoice and the homeowner should apply to the Sewer Lateral Program.  A $150.00 application fee is required.
2. The city will review the claim and arrange for our investigative contractor to video the inside of the pipe. This investigation will be used to ensure the line is collapsed or damaged.
3. If the video shows damage, our repair contractor will repair the line.  The homeowner does not need to get bids for the repair.
4. Expenses less than $7,500 will be paid by the City.  All costs thereafter are the homeowner’s responsibility.

Additional Notes:

• The contractor provides the City with a certificate of insurance and performance bond for this work. The company is licensed and has significant experience in doing this type of sewer repairs.
• Substantially solid sewer lines that merely have a few roots in them will not be replaced. Cabling of such lines is the homeowner’s responsibility.
• Should the scope of the project involve more than $7,500 in total charges, the owner will be given the choice of either directly paying the contractor for more work, or having the project stopped.

Please contact the public works department at 314-835-6130 for more information and to see if you qualify for the program.

View the procedures and application here.

*** Please Note: Most municipalities, cities, and counties with sewer lateral programs limit reimbursements and expenses to the amount available in the Fund at any time. Some offer waiting lists and reimbursements out of the next year’s Fund revenue. Funds typically are on a first-come, first-served basis. You should always check on fund availability. Additionally, most municipalities will require proof of PAID real estate tax bills, city fees, taxes, including personal property taxes, and trash fees if applicable for eligibility to participate in any available programs.

Process:

Before the City’s insurance policy will cover repairs, the homeowner needs to take a few steps to make sure the sewer lateral is indeed collapsed or damaged, rather than just clogged.

1. Call a plumbing or sewer cleaning service and have them clean the sewer lateral line.  The homeowner is responsible for the cost of this service call.  If the cleaning solves the problem, the sewer lateral is fine.  If it does not solve the problem, the plumber should state the problem on the homeowner’s invoice and the homeowner should apply to the Sewer Lateral Program.  A $150.00 application fee is required.
2. The city will review the claim and arrange for our investigative contractor to video the inside of the pipe. This investigation will be used to ensure the line is collapsed or damaged.
3. If the video shows damage, our repair contractor will repair the line.  The homeowner does not need to get bids for the repair.
4. Expenses less than $7,500 will be paid by the City.  All costs thereafter are the homeowner’s responsibility.

Additional Notes:

• The contractor provides the City with a certificate of insurance and performance bond for this work. The company is licensed and has significant experience in doing this type of sewer repairs.
• Substantially solid sewer lines that merely have a few roots in them will not be replaced. Cabling of such lines is the homeowner’s responsibility.
• Should the scope of the project involve more than $7,500 in total charges, the owner will be given the choice of either directly paying the contractor for more work, or having the project stopped.

Please contact the public works department at 314-835-6130 for more information and to see if you qualify for the program.

View the procedures and application here.

*** Please Note: Most municipalities, cities, and counties with sewer lateral programs limit reimbursements and expenses to the amount available in the Fund at any time. Some offer waiting lists and reimbursements out of the next year’s Fund revenue. Funds typically are on a first-come, first-served basis. You should always check on fund availability. Additionally, most municipalities will require proof of PAID real estate tax bills, city fees, taxes, including personal property taxes, and trash fees if applicable for eligibility to participate in any available programs.

The Ellisville Sewer Lateral Insurance Program provides insurance coverage to assist homeowners with the cost of repairs to residential sewer lateral service lines.

Steps in Sewer Lateral Insurance Program

• Identification of a defective private sewer lateral
• Blockage (unresolvable by private cabling)
• Cave-In (investigated by the city and Metropolitan St. Louis Sewer District, MSD)
• Leakage (raw sewage on ground)
• Application to city by homeowner
• City contractor performs camera inspection and locates defective section
• Upon city authorization, homeowner obtains three bids from city-approved contractors
• Homeowner has work performed by contractor approved by city
• Payment is made to contractor upon completion of work

Additional Information

The city has no obligation or responsibility for the performance of the contractor and no responsibility for any damages caused to the owner’s property because of sewer line defects.

When the city determines an emergency or special circumstances exist, the bidding requirements may be waived by the city. In these special situations, the homeowner will be authorized to contact a specific contractor of the city’s choice or the city may authorize the use of a contractor who is not the low bidder.

If the city is notified of, or otherwise becomes aware of, the probability of a leaking sanitary sewer lateral, then the city will take appropriate steps to identify the cause. This may include a dye test, video or camera inspection, or any other steps deemed necessary. The homeowner is responsible for repair or replacement of a leaking or defective sewer lateral. You may be eligible for assistance under the Sewer Lateral Insurance program.

Questions?

If you have questions about the sewer lateral insurance program, please contact Holly Woodland at 636-227-9660, Monday through Friday between 8:30 a.m. and 5 p.m.

*** Please Note: Most municipalities, cities, and counties with sewer lateral programs limit reimbursements and expenses to the amount available in the Fund at any time. Some offer waiting lists and reimbursements out of the next year’s Fund revenue. Funds typically are on a first-come, first-served basis. You should always check on fund availability. Additionally, most municipalities will require proof of PAID real estate tax bills, city fees, taxes, including personal property taxes, and trash fees if applicable for eligibility to participate in any available programs.

The Ellisville Sewer Lateral Insurance Program provides insurance coverage to assist homeowners with the cost of repairs to residential sewer lateral service lines.

Steps in Sewer Lateral Insurance Program

• Identification of a defective private sewer lateral
• Blockage (unresolvable by private cabling)
• Cave-In (investigated by the city and Metropolitan St. Louis Sewer District, MSD)
• Leakage (raw sewage on ground)
• Application to city by homeowner
• City contractor performs camera inspection and locates defective section
• Upon city authorization, homeowner obtains three bids from city-approved contractors
• Homeowner has work performed by contractor approved by city
• Payment is made to contractor upon completion of work

Additional Information

The city has no obligation or responsibility for the performance of the contractor and no responsibility for any damages caused to the owner’s property because of sewer line defects.

When the city determines an emergency or special circumstances exist, the bidding requirements may be waived by the city. In these special situations, the homeowner will be authorized to contact a specific contractor of the city’s choice or the city may authorize the use of a contractor who is not the low bidder.

If the city is notified of, or otherwise becomes aware of, the probability of a leaking sanitary sewer lateral, then the city will take appropriate steps to identify the cause. This may include a dye test, video or camera inspection, or any other steps deemed necessary. The homeowner is responsible for repair or replacement of a leaking or defective sewer lateral. You may be eligible for assistance under the Sewer Lateral Insurance program.

Questions?

If you have questions about the sewer lateral insurance program, please contact Holly Woodland at 636-227-9660, Monday through Friday between 8:30 a.m. and 5 p.m.

*** Please Note: Most municipalities, cities, and counties with sewer lateral programs limit reimbursements and expenses to the amount available in the Fund at any time. Some offer waiting lists and reimbursements out of the next year’s Fund revenue. Funds typically are on a first-come, first-served basis. You should always check on fund availability. Additionally, most municipalities will require proof of PAID real estate tax bills, city fees, taxes, including personal property taxes, and trash fees if applicable for eligibility to participate in any available programs.