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Public Information for San Francisco 94114 Homeowners

Why this matters in 94114

Many homes in San Francisco’s 94114 neighborhood were built before 1950, when terracotta and clay sewer laterals were the standard. These pipes are now decades past their intended lifespan. Over time, joints separate, cracks and corrosion develop, and tree roots force their way inside. The result is slow drains, recurring backups, sewage leaking into soil and groundwater, and costly emergencies when minor issues turn into major failures. A simple camera inspection today can uncover these hidden risks and help homeowners avoid expensive damage tomorrow.

Get a no-cost inspection by calling (415) 909-4888. A licensed technician will provide a simple report so you can plan ahead

Warning Signs

Slow Drains & Gurgling

Recurring Clogs

Multiple fixtures slow, toilet gurgles, or bubbles at sinks = likely blockage in the lateral (not just one sink).

If snaking “works” but it comes back, there may be cracks, offsets, or returning roots.

Settling & Sinkholes

Dips in pavement/soil or small sinkholes may be caused by ongoing leakage undermining soil.

Roots at the Cleanout

Roots pulled during service or visible at a cleanout mean they’re inside the pipe and will return.

Old Clay Laterals

Pre‑1950 clay with many joints = higher risk of separation, intrusion, and exfiltration.

Doscount Plumbing Sewer.jpg

Why 94114 Is Especially at Risk

Environmental Concern:
Leaky laterals let sewage into soil and groundwater and allow stormwater into sewers (inflow/infiltration), contributing to backups during storms.

  • Older housing stock: Many homes built pre‑1950 with clay laterals now beyond typical service life.

  • Lots of trees: Roots seek moisture, enter tiny gaps at joints, and create blockages/damage.

  • Hills & slopes: Hilly terrain can stress aging laterals and accelerate joint separation.

Ground Movement & Your Pipe:

  • Offsets/separations at joints from seasonal soil movement and seismic activity

  • Cracks/fractures that invite root intrusion and leakage

  • Bellies (sags) where solids collect and drains stay slow

Tree Roots in 94114

  • Growth can seem seasonal (“fine, then slow again”).

  • Cutting roots without sealing entry points is temporary.

  • A camera inspection locates the exact joints or cracks affected.

What You Can Do Today

  • Get a complimentary camera inspection
    A licensed technician records the inside of your lateral and shares the findings.

  • Understand clear next steps
    You’ll get a simple summary—maintenance, spot repair, or replacement—so you can plan/budget.

  • Prevent emergencies
    Early detection helps avoid sewage backups, property damage, and health risks.

Discount Plumbing will be conducting complimentary sewer line inspections until September 30th, 2025. You can contact them directly by calling (415) 909-4888.

Discount Plumbing has offices in San Francisco and Daly City.

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