Generally speaking, you're usually responsible for drains inside the boundaries of your property, while the sewerage company is responsible for lateral drains, which are usually outside of property boundaries, and sewers.
However, when it comes to problems caused by plumbing malfunctions (like stopped up toilets or clogged sinks), the landlord is the one responsible for paying the fees.
According to data collected by homewyse.com, the average drain cleaning job—including the cost of any supplies and labor—will run a homeowner between $100-$300. The reason for the variability in price comes down to the type of clog and how much time is required to fully clear it.
In California, tenants do not have to pay for plumbing problems in rental properties unless the issue is a result of their negligence or is specifically outlined in the lease agreement. Landlords are generally responsible for maintaining and repairing plumbing systems to provide habitable living conditions for tenants.
"Landlords are legally required to repair or replace anything structural, which includes plumbing. Plus it would be unreasonable to expect a tenant to fix the drain beyond a certain point in the necessary time frame and in the proper way to prevent it from causing plumbing issues throughout the building," he says.
If the blockage is in your home, it's your responsibility to unblock it. These signs may show it's in your home: Your neighbours aren't having problems with their drains. Your property doesn't share a drain with any others.
For the toughest of clogs, a plumber may use a hydro jet. This tool sends pressured water through pipes to break down drain build-up. This tool is often faster and more efficient than a typical drain snake. Hydro jets get rid of the clog, but they're also effective for cleaning drains.
Examples of Normal Wear and Tear Damage
Sticky doors and windows. Cracked window panes. Loose grouting on tiles. Partially clogged sinks and drains attributed to aging pipes.
A: Under California law, if your month-to-month rental agreement explicitly states that water, sewage, and garbage are included in your rent, the landlord generally cannot unilaterally change this arrangement during your current tenancy.
Pour 1/2 a cup of baking soda down the drain, followed by 1/2 a cup of white vinegar. Cover the drain and let the cleaning solution sit for 15 to 20 minutes. Pour hot water down the drain (or boiling water if your water doesn't get very hot). Reinstall the strainer or stopper.
Salt and Baking Soda
Salt is a cost-effective alternative that works well for minor clogs. Mixing half a cup of table salt with baking soda and pouring it down the drain before adding boiling water can help break down grease and debris.
You'll likely pay between $300 and $450 to unclog your toilet with Roto-Rooter. However, the price could change depending on if the clog has caused a lot of damage, which your plumbing pro will want to inspect during your service appointment. Keep in mind that you won't get a quote from Roto-Rooter over the phone.
You can tackle a clogged sewer line using other strategies if you don't have a snake on hand. First, you can run hot water down the drain for 5 to 10 minutes to see if that helps break up the clog. If it doesn't, pour equal parts of vinegar and baking soda into a bowl and then pour that mixture down the drain.
Sewers and lateral drains connected to the public network used to be the responsibility of the property owner. However, most are now maintained by local water companies. If you have any problems with your sewer or lateral drain, for example if it's blocked, contact your local water company.
How Much Will It Cost to Clean My Drain? [2025 Data] The cost of drain cleaning is about $241, but ranges between $147 and $344 depending on the clog. The cost of drain cleaning averages about $241, but it can fall between $147 and $344, depending on the location and extent of your clog.
Standard homeowners policies typically won't cover blocked pipes from tree roots or any type of sewage backup. However, many insurers, including Progressive, offer an endorsement to your policy that may cover sewer line damage.
The Sneaky Leak: A Silent Money Pit
A leak in your sewer line is a prime suspect for a skyrocketing sewer bill. Even a small crack or hole can allow gallons of water to escape into the ground, inflating your water usage and, consequently, your sewer bill.
If there are adverse effects from the sewage leak, or the party responsible doesn't take care of the health hazard as they should, then you may even be able to sue because of their negligence.
At closing, the seller gives the settlement agent their new address to send the final water bill. Once they receive the final bill, they usually pay. On the rare occasion that the seller doesn't pay the small amount left, it's added to the new owner's bill.
In some cases, a blocked drain can clear itself. This depends on the cause and severity of the blockage. For example, minor clogs caused by soap scum or small debris might eventually break down and wash away. Most blockages stem from more persistent issues, such as hair, food waste, or tree roots.
When a drain clog is ignored, the consequences can be serious. Left unchecked, a clogged drain can lead to a variety of plumbing problems, from reduced water pressure to flooding and sewage backups.
If you still cannot unclog the drain, it is time to call a plumber. An experienced plumber will use either a commercial snake or a specialized tool that forces pressurized air through the system. Unless there is something seriously wrong with your plumbing, a pro should be able to clear clogs with ease.
Hydro jetting costs $475 on average but range from $350 to $600. A plumber can give you a quote and get rid of your sewer clog. Having to keep your plumber on speed dial is no fun for any homeowner. If chronic sewer clogs are giving you issues, it might be time to call in the big guns.
If you're dealing with a more stubborn or complicated blockage, you'll likely need a professional plumber. Their solutions can take a couple of hours or even a whole day to complete.