Product Knowledge~15 min
Sewer Solutions & Technology
Purpose
Product knowledge for sewer line repair and replacement solutions and the technology Spartan uses to diagnose and fix sewer problems.
When to Use
During sewer-related sales appointments, when presenting options for sewer repairs or replacements.
Diagnostic Technology
Camera Inspection
- Spartan uses sewer camera systems to inspect the full length of the sewer line.
- Records video for the customer to see — showing them the problem builds trust and justifies the repair.
- Always run a camera before quoting a sewer repair to accurately scope the job.
- Camera footage is saved and attached to the job record in ServiceTitan.
Locating Equipment
- After camera identifies the problem, use a locator to pinpoint the exact position and depth of the issue.
- This determines the dig location for traditional repairs or access points for trenchless methods.
Sewer Repair Options
Spot Repair (Good)
- Dig and replace only the failed section of pipe.
- Best for: isolated breaks, root intrusion at a single joint, bellied section.
- Lower cost but doesn't address the rest of the aging line.
Traditional Sewer Replacement (Better)
- Dig and replace the full sewer line from the house to the city connection.
- Best for: severely deteriorated lines, multiple failure points, collapsed pipe.
- Requires excavation — customer needs to understand yard/driveway impact.
- Restoration (yard, concrete, landscaping) should be discussed upfront.
Trenchless Pipe Lining / Bursting (Best)
- Pipe lining (CIPP): A resin-coated liner is inserted into the existing pipe and cured in place, creating a new pipe within the old one. Minimal digging.
- Pipe bursting: A new pipe is pulled through the old one, breaking the old pipe apart. Requires only entry and exit pits.
- Best for: customers who want to preserve their yard/landscaping, faster timeline.
- Not suitable for all situations — collapsed pipes or severe misalignment may require traditional dig.
Drain Clearing vs. Repair
- Drain clearing (snaking, hydrojetting) is maintenance, not repair. It clears blockages but doesn't fix structural problems.
- If camera shows structural damage after clearing, present repair options.
- Be honest with the customer: "Clearing will fix the immediate backup, but the underlying problem will cause it to happen again."
Important Notes
- Always camera before and after sewer work — before to diagnose, after to verify the repair.
- Sewer replacements require city permits in most jurisdictions. Include in the estimate.
- Restoration scope (yard, concrete, landscaping) must be clearly communicated and documented.
- If the sewer connects to a septic system rather than city sewer, the scope and approach may differ.
Related SOPs
- Sewer Line Diagnostics — diagnostic procedures
- Sewer Line Repair & Replacement — installation procedures
- Permit Application & Requirements — permit process for sewer work