FAQ

Galvanized pipe is dull grey and magnetic (a magnet will stick to it), unlike copper, which is reddish. Pressure that's dropped over the years, rusty water first thing in the morning, and a big flow difference between the ground floor and upstairs are other clues. We can confirm it in a few minutes during a visit.

Because the water table rises quickly during the thaw, and the sewer network in several sectors receives both meltwater and wastewater at once. Without a backwater valve on the floor drain, the basement's lowest point takes the overload.

For the private portion on a typical duplex, expect roughly $3,500 to $7,000, depending on the distance to the street, soil type, and whether paving needs to be restored. The public portion, when it's involved, is the city's responsibility. The itemized quote is free.

Some cities in the region run replacement programs for lead service lines on the public portion — check directly with yours. The private portion, from the curb stop to the house, is the owner's responsibility either way.

It depends on the scope of the work and the municipality. A full replacement spanning several floors usually needs a plumbing permit; a localized repair may not. We check with your municipality before starting.