Before You Dig: What Homeowners Should Know About Underground Utilities

In this blog post, the plumbers at Mr. Rooter Plumbing walk you through what you need to know about underground utilities so that you can make informed decisions. Remember, we are the pros to call when you need a dependable service provider to help install or repair underground utility plumbing.

1. Always Call Before You Dig

The most important rule when dealing with underground plumbing utilities is to contact your local “Call Before You Dig” service, often accessed by dialing 811 in the U.S., at least a few days before you begin. Utility companies will send professionals to mark the location of buried lines, including water, sewer, gas, and electrical systems. These markings prevent accidental damage that could disrupt service or put you at risk.

2. Understand What’s Buried Beneath Your Property

Many homeowners assume underground utilities only belong to the city, but that’s not always true. While municipalities maintain public lines up to the street, the portion running from your home to the main connection point is your responsibility. This includes your main water line, sewer lateral, irrigation pipes, and sometimes private gas or electric lines. Knowing what’s yours to maintain can save time, money, and confusion during repairs or renovations.

3. Know the Warning Signs of Hidden Damage

Even without digging, underground plumbing problems can make themselves known through subtle signs. Look out for soggy or sunken patches in your yard, unexpected increases in your water bill, slow drains, or foul odors. These can indicate a broken water or sewer line that requires attention before excavation begins. Identifying issues early allows you to plan repairs strategically and avoid making the situation worse with unnecessary digging. If you’re not sure about hidden damage, schedule an inspection with a local plumbing service company.

4. Hire Professionals for Safe Excavation

Excavating around underground plumbing is not a simple DIY task. One wrong move can rupture a pipe, damage nearby utilities, or cause ground instability. Licensed plumbers and excavation specialists have the right equipment, training, and experience to locate and repair underground lines safely. They use advanced tools such as pipe locators, hydro excavation, and trenchless repair technology to minimize disruption while fixing the problem accurately.

5. Consider Trenchless Repair Options

If you’re facing an underground pipe issue, you don’t always have to dig up your entire yard. Modern trenchless methods like pipe bursting and pipe lining allow plumbers to replace or rehabilitate damaged pipes with minimal digging. These solutions are faster, less invasive, and often more cost-effective than traditional excavation. Before starting any project, ask your plumbing service company if trenchless repair is an option for your situation.

Trust Mr. Rooter Plumbing for Underground Utility Plumbing Repair

If you’ve noticed signs of underground utility plumbing damage, it’s best to call a local plumber for quick help. Perhaps there are unexplained puddles pooling in your yard, or maybe you’re getting discolored water from your taps. These are obvious signs of pipe damage, and they need to be fixed as quickly as possible. Mr. Rooter Plumbing is a premier plumbing company that has been offering reliable plumbing repairs for over 20 years. From pipe repair and hydro jetting to sewer repair and water line replacement, we’ve got you covered. Contact us when you need a professional plumber specializing in underground utility plumbing service.