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Each job page opens with the short answer, then a table of how it differs from place to place, with the sheet to turn to.

• Who owns which pipeWho owns which pipe at your house? Where the utility stops and you start, for DC, Arlington,...
• Sewer lateral repairSewer lateral broken or backing up? Who pays, who pulls the permit and who to call first in DC,... Picture: AI-generated.
• Basement backupsSewage coming up in your basement? What to do in the first hour, who to call in DC and Northern...
• Backwater valves and rebatesBackwater valve for sewer backups: how it works, DC and Alexandria rebates, who must install... Picture: AI-generated.
• Lead service linesDo you have a lead service line? How to find out from your utility, who pays for replacement,...
• DC lead pipe programsWhich DC lead pipe replacement program applies to you? Four routes, who qualifies, what you...
• Lead pipes in VirginiaLead service lines in Northern Virginia: what Arlington, Fairfax Water and the towns say, what...
• Permits, by placeDo you need a plumbing permit, and who issues it? DC, Arlington, Alexandria, Fairfax County and...
• Checking a plumber's licenseHow to check a plumber's license in DC and Northern Virginia: which board covers you, what the...
• Historic district limitsDoes a historic district limit plumbing work? Where review applies in DC, Alexandria and...
• Street trees and rootsTree roots in the sewer line: who owns the pipe, who owns the tree, and which offices to ask in...
• Digging and 811Call 811 before you dig: Virginia 811 is free and wants three days notice; DC uses Miss...
• Cast-iron drainsOld cast iron drain lines: our official sources say little by name, so here is what they do say... Picture: AI-generated.
• Polybutylene pipePolybutylene pipe in a DC or Northern Virginia house: no government or county record found;... Picture: AI-generated.
• Asbestos pipe wrapOld pipe wrap or insulation that might contain asbestos: leave it alone, and call trained... Picture: AI-generated.
• Gas water heatersGas water heater rules differ by place: leave first if you smell gas, and know which permit and... Picture: AI-generated.
• Finding the main shutoffFinding your main water shutoff: where your pipe responsibility starts in DC and Virginia, and... Picture: AI-generated.
• Wells and septicPrivate wells and septic systems in Fairfax County: the Health Department program, the... Picture: AI-generated.