Sewer Services

Sewer Services in Pittsburgh

Four Generations of Sewer Service for Pittsburgh Properties

A sewer repair should begin with clear information about the condition and location of the problem. Rick Hartman Plumbing provides video inspections, sewer cleaning, repair, and replacement assessments for residential and commercial properties throughout Pittsburgh.

Our family-owned plumbing business has served Pittsburgh since 1994, drawing on four generations of experience. Our plumbers are licensed, bonded, and insured, and we offer same-day service for pressing sewer concerns. When a backup or blockage can’t wait, our 24/7 emergency plumbing service gives you a direct place to call.

Call (412) 556-1576 to schedule sewer service for an active backup, recurring blockage, or suspected pipe damage.

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Flexible Financing Options Available

Don’t let costs delay your home’s comfort—ask us about financing! Call now to explore easy payment options.

How We Diagnose, Clean & Repair Sewer Problems

Sewer symptoms don’t always reveal whether the problem is buildup, an obstruction, or physical damage. We identify the source and extent of the issue before recommending cleaning or repairs.

Sewer Camera Inspection
Video equipment shows the condition of the pipe and locates visible problems. We perform this inspection before repair work so our recommendation reflects what’s happening inside the pipe, not an assumption based on surface symptoms.

Hydro-Jetting
Hydro-jetting uses pressurized water to clear buildup. We provide it for sewer clogs and blockages when the pipe condition and type of obstruction make this cleaning method appropriate.

Rooter Service
We also provide rooter service to remove sewer clogs and blockages. Because obstructions and pipe conditions vary, we select the cleaning approach after identifying the source of the problem.

Sewer Repair & Replacement Assessment
Damage confined to one area may call for a spot repair, while a problem affecting a larger section can require full replacement. We assess the findings, location, and extent of the damage before recommending an option. Our services also include trenchless sewer repair when that method fits the pipe and required work.

What to Expect During Sewer Service

We begin by identifying the pipe’s condition and the source of the blockage or damage. The findings guide the work, so we don’t prescribe cleaning, repair, or replacement before completing an evaluation.

Our sewer service process may include:

Initial evaluation: We review the symptoms and determine what diagnostic work is needed.
Video diagnosis: We examine the pipe and locate visible defects or obstructions before repairs begin.
Service recommendation: We explain whether cleaning, spot repair, trenchless repair, or full replacement is appropriate.
Cleaning or repair: We complete the selected work based on the findings and required project scope.
Permit coordination: We coordinate with PWSA when lateral repair permits and inspections are required.

Flexible financing options are available for plumbing repairs. Ask about them when you contact us for service.

Who Is Responsible for Pittsburgh Sewer Laterals?

A sewer lateral is the pipe that runs from the public sewer main to a property’s internal plumbing. In Pittsburgh, residential and commercial property owners are responsible for the entire lateral, while PWSA maintains the public sewer main and the connecting joint known as the wye.

This division matters when a backup or damaged pipe is located on private property. An owner may need to arrange cleaning or repair even when the public sewer main is functioning. A video inspection can locate the problem within the lateral and guide the next service decision.

How Pittsburgh’s Combined Sewers Can Affect Backups

Many older Pittsburgh districts use a combined sewer system, which carries stormwater and sanitary sewage through shared underground infrastructure. During heavy rain, that infrastructure can become surcharged, meaning it fills beyond its normal capacity. Sewage can then move back through private laterals and enter basements.

Not every backup has the same cause, so rainfall alone doesn’t establish what work a private pipe needs. An inspection can distinguish a blockage or damaged lateral from conditions related to the larger sewer system, avoiding a premature decision about repairs.

Permits & Inspections for Pittsburgh Sewer Lateral Work

Repair, replacement, or relining of a sewer lateral in the City of Pittsburgh requires a plumbing permit. A licensed plumber must perform the permitted work, and the applicable repair or connection must be inspected before the trench or connection is covered.

We coordinate with PWSA for the required sewer repair permits and inspections. This coordination is part of planning permitted lateral work, whether the findings support a localized repair, relining, or replacement of a larger section.

Our Reviews

Hear From Your Friends & Neighbors

“Excellent Experience”
“From start to finish I had an excellent experience with Rick Hartman Plumbing... Pricing was fair and upfront, and I was able to pay with a debit card online. A very nice experience given the circumstances.”

- Alex P.
“Reliable Company”
“Rick Hartman Plumbing has always been reliable, quick, and professional. They respond in emergencies, and have appointments available throughout the week.. I couldn't recommend them more!”

- Jocelyn K.
“Great Experience”
“Excellent professional service and personal attitude.. the office was very patient and at the same time quick to respond, overall great experience. And very reasonable pricing. Highly recommend.”

- Yevgeny F.
“Great Job”
“He did a great job. The work was very clean and presentable. He took the to explain how the unit operated and answered the questions I had. I would highly recommend for all of your HVAC and plumbing needs!”

- Brendon K.
“Top-Notch Company”
“The 2 men, Steve and Nick, met all our expectations…knowledgeable, neat and very respectful. So pleased with their work ethic… top not”

- Margo D.
“Very Professional”
“Dan was courteous and THE most knowledgeable plumbing professional we've EVER had in our home over many years. Efficient and got the job DONE right! SO happy! Alright, Dan!!”

- Moira K.
“Clean & Thorough”
“Clean up was done very thoroughly. I would use them again without hesitation.”

- L. B.
“Highly Recommend”
“Excellent service. I called this morning with a clogged basement drain and there were out in a few hours, fixed the problem and left the area spotless... I highly recommend Hartman Plumbing!”

- Gitthaline G.

View All Reviews

Arrange the Right Sewer Service for Your Property

Our contact page includes a contact form for residential and commercial property owners who need sewer cleaning, an inspection, a repair assessment, or emergency assistance. After evaluating the problem, we explain the recommended work and the reason for it.

Flexible financing options are available for plumbing repairs, allowing you to discuss payment options once the scope of work is clear.

Call (412) 556-1576 to request sewer service.

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