New York State spans New York City’s dense, century-old housing and upstate regions with some of the snowiest winters in the country. In the city, property owners are generally responsible for the water service line and sewer connection from the building to the street main, and older lines can be lead, galvanized or cast iron.
Upstate, lake-effect snow and sustained cold make frozen pipes and frozen service lines a regular winter problem, and basements with sump pumps are standard.
Plumbing services we provide in New York
These are the services New York homeowners call about most often, based on the conditions above.
Water Line Repair
Water line repair fixes the underground service line that carries water from the municipal meter or curb stop to the house.
Water Line Repair details →
Sewer Line Repair
Sewer line repair fixes damage to the building sewer or lateral, the pipe that carries wastewater from a house to the public sewer main or septic system.
Sewer Line Repair details →
Pipe Repair
Pipe repair is fixing a damaged section of a home's water supply or drain piping, from a pinhole leak or failed fitting to a split caused by freezing.
Pipe Repair details →
Drain Cleaning
Drain cleaning is the mechanical removal of buildup, debris or roots from drain and waste pipes so water flows freely to the sewer or septic system.
Drain Cleaning details →
Sump Pump Repair
Sump pump repair restores a basement or crawl space pump that collects groundwater in a pit and pumps it away from the foundation.
Sump Pump Repair details →Local conditions that affect plumbing in New York
Owner-responsible service lines
In New York City, repairs to the private water service and sewer connection out to the main are typically the owner’s responsibility, which can mean street excavation and permits.
Lake-effect cold
Buffalo, Rochester and Syracuse see long cold periods; pipes along exterior walls and in unheated spaces need insulation.
Old housing stock
Many homes across the state predate World War II and have galvanized supply, cast iron drains and older water heaters.
Basements
Spring thaw and heavy rain make sump pumps, backwater valves and floor drain maintenance important.
City plumbing guides in New York
Plumbing emergency in New York?
- Shut off the main water valve if water is leaking or a pipe has burst.
- Keep away from water near outlets, cords or the electrical panel.
- If sewage is backing up, stop using every drain in the house.
- If you smell gas, leave the building and call the gas utility or 911 from outside.
New York plumbing questions
Who pays to fix a broken water service line in New York City?
Property owners are generally responsible for the service line from the building to the main, including the portion under the sidewalk and street. Some insurance and utility programs offer service line coverage.
How do I keep pipes from freezing in upstate New York?
Insulate and air-seal around pipes on exterior walls, keep heat on when away, disconnect hoses, and open cabinet doors during extreme cold.
Do New York City buildings have lead service lines?
Some older buildings do. NYC DEP has information on service line material and replacement; check your address.
Who is responsible for water and sewer lines in New York City?
Property owners are generally responsible for the service line and sewer connection from the building to the city main.
Why do Long Island homes have septic systems and cesspools?
Much of Long Island isn’t sewered. Older cesspools are being replaced in some areas with systems that reduce nitrogen.
Do upstate New York homes need sump pumps?
Many homes with basements rely on sump pumps during snowmelt and spring rain.
How do I prevent frozen pipes in upstate New York?
Insulate exposed pipes, seal drafts near plumbing, keep heat on and disconnect hoses.
Is New York City water hard?
NYC water is generally soft because it comes from upstate reservoirs. Upstate and Long Island groundwater can be harder.
