(206) 789-5353 Click To Call
Serving Seattle & Surrounding Areas

Sewer Locating Services

5/5
Review 6
Request service
A plumber locate for a drain in the backyard, photo by Ben's Plumbing
drop-v3

What is Sewer Line Locating?

The hidden heroes of your Seattle home’s plumbing system, sewer lines whisk away wastewater without a fuss. But when it comes to repairs or renovations, their secretive nature can create challenges. This is where sewer line locating steps in.

Sewer line locating is the process of pinpointing the exact path of your underground drain pipes. These pipes are the workhorses, transporting wastewater from sinks, toilets, and appliances to the city underground system or your septic tank.

Knowing your wastewater line’s location is crucial for several reasons:

Avoids Costly Accidents: Underground surprises during digging projects can lead to damaged pipes, messy backups, and expensive repairs. Accurate drain pipe locating helps steer clear of these headaches.
Faster Repairs: When a clog or leak strikes, knowing your wastewater line path allows for swift and targeted solutions, minimizing disruption and potential damage.

At Ben’s Plumbing, we leverage advanced technology to locate your underground lines efficiently and precisely. This eliminates unnecessary excavation, saving you time and money. This modern approach to sewer line locating safeguards your property, keeps your plumbing flowing smoothly, and allows you to tackle projects with confidence.

We are highly

REGARDED

1angi
1yelp
1bbb
1phcc

Methods for Sewer Detection

Underground pipes can add an unwelcome layer of mystery to any plumbing project. Ben’s Plumbing offers a range of advanced sewer location services to pinpoint your line precisely, eliminating the guesswork and saving you time and money.

We utilize a variety of underground utility locating methods to ensure an accurate and efficient process. Here’s how we do it:

Clean pipe, icon Ben's Plumbing
Electronic Pipe Locators
  • Radio Frequency Locators: Think of this as a metal detector for your wastewater line. These devices emit radio signals that travel through the pipe, allowing our technicians to track the signal on the surface and determine the line’s path and depth.
  • Sonde or Transmitter Locators: This method works like a hidden tag for your sewer line. A small transmitter is attached to a special camera and pushed through the line. On the surface, a receiver tracks the transmitter’s signal, pinpointing the exact location of the line.
video-camera-icon
Sewer Camera Inspection
  • Camera Insertion: We deploy a specialized waterproof camera directly into your wastewater pipe. As the camera navigates the pipe, it provides a real-time visual inspection, revealing any blockages, damage, and the exact route of your system.
  • Recording and Mapping: The camera footage is meticulously recorded, allowing us to identify potential problems and map the precise location of your underground line. This method is particularly valuable for detailed inspections and verifying the condition of your pipes.
signal-icon
Ground Penetrating Radar (GPR)

This is like having X-ray vision for underground infrastructure. GPR technology uses harmless radar pulses to create a detailed image of the subsurface, revealing the exact location and depth of your buried sewer line.

In some cases, we might use manual probing with specialized rods or stakes, especially for locating shallow sewer lines or verifying the accuracy of other methods.

By combining these methods, Ben’s Plumbing ensures a comprehensive and accurate sewer line locating experience for your Seattle property. We understand that each project has unique requirements, so we carefully select the most appropriate methods based on your specific needs and site conditions. Contact us today to discuss your sewer location needs and experience the difference with our clear communication, expert knowledge, and top-notch sewer service.

Why You Need Private Sewer Line Services

Public utility locating is helpful, but it only tracks city sewer lines to your property line. For private property in Seattle and the Eastside, things get tricky. Here’s why private sewer line locating is essential:

  • Hidden Lines: Your private sewer line, including shared side sewers, runs from your house to the city line. Private locators have the expertise to find these hidden paths accurately.
  • Diverse Systems: Unlike public lines, private systems can vary widely. Whether you have septic tanks or unique setups, private locators use advanced tools like ground penetrating radar (GPR) to navigate any system with precision.
  • Minimal Disruption: Knowing exactly where your sewer line is located avoids unnecessary digging in your yard. Private locators use targeted methods to minimize disruption, ensuring your property remains intact.
vac-bg

When you are looking for sewer pipe locator service near me, trust Ben’s Plumbing for professional sewer line locating in Seattle. With over 25 years of experience and an AAA rating from the Better Business Bureau, Ben’s Plumbing provides reliable and precise service.

3-Step Process for Efficient Sewer Locating

Whether you have a construction or landscaping project or are experiencing a mystery sewer issue, knowing where your underground pipes are is critical. That’s where sewer pipe locator services come in handy. Here’s the lowdown on the three crucial steps to pinpointing your drain pipe location in the Greater Seattle area.

phone-icon
Step 1: Contact the One Call Center

Before any shovels hit the dirt, dial the Dig Save Washigton One Call Center at 800-424-5555 (or 811). This free service will connect you with your local utility locating center, marking all public utilities on your property—except for your private lines. Private lines are usually anything that extends beyond the meter.

Emergency Plumbing, icon Ben's Plumbing
Step 2: Go for Private Sewer Line Identification

Since the One Call Center doesn’t cover private sewer lines, it’s time to call in the pros. Hire a private sewer locating company in Greater Seattle that uses advanced equipment and techniques to track down your wastewater lines. Here’s what they might use electromagnetic locating, GPR or video camera inspection.

Inspection icon, icon Ben's Plumbing
Step 3: Pick a Top-Notch Sewer Locating Company

Choosing the right sewer locating company is crucial. Focus on finding one with solid experience and expertise in the Greater Seattle area. Look for:

  • Positive Customer Reviews: Online reviews can give you a peek into the company’s reputation and service quality.
  • Proper Licensing and Insurance: Make sure the company is licensed in Washington State and fully insured.
  • Experience with Your Needs: If you have a complex system or need extra services like leak detection, pick a company that knows the ropes.

For reliable and professional locating services, trust Ben’s Plumbing. With over 25 years of experience, a team of licensed and insured experts, and an AAA rating from the Better Business Bureau, Ben’s Plumbing is your go-to choice for accurate and efficient line locating. Follow these steps with confidence, knowing that Ben’s Plumbing has got your back for any repairs or replacements needed.

drop-v3

Great Reasons
to Choose
Ben's Plumbing

At Ben’s Plumbing, our expert team has 25+ years of experience using advanced tools like GPR to pinpoint them precisely.

Customer satisfaction is at the heart of what we do. We are committed to making your experience smooth from start to finish. Our friendly team works diligently to meet your needs and ensure you receive top-quality service.

Choosing Ben’s Plumbing means you’re in good hands. Our commitment to high-quality work and excellent customer service has earned us an AAA rating with the Better Business Bureau. We are also a Washington State Department of Labor and Industries licensed contractor, ensuring professionalism and trustworthiness in all we do.

With Ben’s Plumbing, you get a team that combines expertise with a genuine dedication to doing things right. Trust us to provide clear communication, precise detection, and outstanding customer satisfaction.

(206) 789-5353
Areas We Serve
Cities & Neighborhoods
Areas We Serve
  • Beaux Arts
  • Hazelwood
  • Mercer Island
  • Robinswood
  • Bridle Trails
  • Highlands
  • Newcastle
  • Sammamish
  • Burien
  • Hilltop
  • Newport
  • Somerset
  • Cougar Mountain/Lakemont
  • Kingsgate
  • Northeast Bellevue
  • West Lake Sammamish
  • Crossroads
  • Kirkland
  • Northwest Bellevue
  • Wilburton/Bel-Red
  • Downtown Seattle
  • Lake Hills
  • Redmond
  • Woodridge
  • Eastgate/Factoria
  • Medina
  • Renton
Frequently Asked Questions
How do I find my sewer line?

Locating your wastewater line can be challenging without the right plans. Look for a sewer cleanout, typically a small pipe with a cap, which connects to the main line. For precise location, consult a professional plumber.

Ben’s Plumbing offers highly accurate sewer locating services. We use ground penetrating radar (GPR) to pinpoint lines, typically within 6 inches of the center of the pipe. Depth accuracy can vary by 10-15%, depending on surrounding materials and pipe composition.

What does a pipe locator do?

A pipe locator specializes in underground utility locating methods, including finding wastewater lines, using advanced tools like GPR. Pipe locator services like Ben’s Plumbing, play a crucial role in ensuring safe and smooth construction projects by accurately locating hidden pipes and cables.

How do I find a buried drain pipe?

To find a buried drain pipe, mark suspected areas with spray paint and compare with existing plans. Avoid using heavy equipment to prevent pipe damage. Consulting a professional plumber can ensure precise location. Ben’s Plumbing provides professional locating services, using GPR to ensure precise and safe identification of drain pipes.

How do you trace plumbing lines?

Tracing plumbing lines involves using GPR to send signals into the ground and analyze the readings. Ben’s Plumbing employs this technology to provide accurate pipe locations without guesswork. We also use existing plans to verify GPR findings, ensuring precise results.

How to locate a sewer line?

Hiring a professional plumber from Ben’s Plumbing is the best way to locate a sewer line. Our experts use GPR technology to accurately identify underground utility lines, even without access to plans. Understanding the municipal sewer system further aids our effective location services.

How to find a drain pipe?

Finding a drain pipe is simpler with Ben’s Plumbing. We use GPR technology to provide utility readings, accurately pinpointing drain pipes while avoiding damage. Our professional services ensure reliable and precise results, making the process straightforward and efficient.

Your Honest Plumbing Partner
Stress-free, Trustworthy Plumbing:

We understand how frustrating it is to call a plumber and be pitched unnecessary services. Our experienced team at Ben’s Plumbing is not paid on commission, so you can gain peace of mind knowing your plumbing needs are met without any upselling.

Stress-free, Trustworthy Plumbing:
drop-v3
Testimonials

Customer reviews

1
/ 35
Tee E.
5
Tee E.
We've used Ben's Plumbing for the last ten years or so. Some times it's been for planned work as part of a remodel and several times they've been for emergencies like a burst water tank. Each interaction has been very positive - good communication, thorough follow-through, personal service, and trustworthy. It's great to have a local company that's been so responsive and reliable over the years. (Including this morning's unexpected call for help!) Thank you!
Learn More
Peg M.
5
Peg M.
Ben's Plumbing was great. We needed to replace our 13 year old water heater, fix an leaking outdoor faucet and unplug the pipe feeding out kitchen sink and dishwasher. All done in one day - with no mess or fuss. I appreciated that they wore masks and left the house clean and dry.
Learn More
Vincent Scott B.
5
Vincent Scott B.
Professional, friendly, excellent work, they clean up as they go, and fairly priced. A great local family business!
Learn More
Laura Querry
5
Laura Querry
"I hired Ben's to take care of the plumbing for two bathroom fluffs in our home - the first visit involved removing the old faucets and the second visit was to install new faucets and a (tricky) Kohler Reach toilet. I can't remember the first plumber's name, but Nick did the installs and they were both great to work with"
Learn More
Nathan Kurtz
5
Nathan Kurtz
Ben was great! Very friendly, professional, and knowledgeable, will use again, happily!
Learn More
Anthony Sicola
5
Anthony Sicola
Our water heater decided to start leaking at 3pm on a Friday and the team at Ben's Plumbing got back to me quickly, got me a bid that wasnt outrageous, and scheduled me for their first slot on Monday morning. The installers arrived on time, were quick, thoughtful, and did great work. I'd totally recommend Ben's Plumbing to anyone.
Learn More

We'd Love To Hear From You!

Connect with us below!
(For faster reply, please call (206) 789-5353 )

drop-map
Same day response
drop-v3
Plumbing And Heating Needs

Same day response

We aim to provide expert & long-lasting plumbing installations, repairs, and replacements. Ensuring your plumbing system works efficiently throughout the year, year after year.
Contact Us Today