Maintaining the infrastructure of commercial buildings is a crucial responsibility for building owners and managers.
While regular inspections and maintenance efforts are generally well-known and practiced in various aspects of a building, one area that often goes unnoticed is the sewer system.
Neglecting sewer inspections can result in unforeseen issues, including costly repairs, unsanitary conditions, and disruptions to regular business operations. It’s an area where utility contractors can and should play an important role.
Identifying potential issues
Regular sewer inspections serve as a proactive measure to identify potential problems before they escalate. These inspections allow us contractors to detect issues such as clogs, leaks, pipe deterioration, and root intrusions at an early stage. By catching problems early, building owners can save substantial expenses that would otherwise be incurred during emergency repairs.
During inspections, we can use advanced technology like sewer cameras to thoroughly examine the pipe system and identify signs of wear and tear, corrosion, cracks, and blockages that may obstruct wastewater flow.
Early detection not only reduces repair costs but also prevents further damage to the sewer infrastructure, ensuring the smooth functioning of a building's plumbing system. Don’t just ram the camera in as quick as possible to get out and get to the next job. Really do a thorough job inspecting the system.
Maintaining sanitary conditions
Commercial buildings, especially those providing services to the public, need to maintain high health and safety standards. Sewer inspections can detect any problems that might compromise sanitary conditions, such as sewer backups, foul odors, or contamination. These issues can cause significant public health hazards, leading to a tarnished reputation, legal consequences, and even business closure. We as contractors don’t typically think in terms of tarnished reputations or legal consequences, but as an example, think for a moment of a wedding venue with massive cancellations due to sewer issues.
By conducting regular inspections, commercial building owners and managers can ensure the proper functioning of their sewer systems, preventing backups and leaks that can contaminate the building's surroundings. Inspections also identify potential sources of foul odor, enabling timely repairs and maintenance. Maintaining sanitary conditions not only protects the health and well-being of occupants but also ensures compliance with relevant health codes and regulations. The last thing we want is to allow, for example, a leaking waste stack to be put off for months until it causes property damage.
Preventing business disruptions
Commercial buildings rely heavily on regular business operations; any interruption can lead to financial losses and inconvenience for tenants, customers, and employees. Regular sewer inspections help identify potential disruptions that may occur due to blockages, leaks, or structural damage. By addressing these issues proactively, building owners can prevent unexpected and costly shutdowns.
During routine inspections, you should assess the condition of the sewer lines, identifying any blockages caused by debris, grease buildup, or tree roots. Inspect the integrity of the pipes, searching for leaks or structural damage that could lead to pipe failure. By promptly addressing these issues, we can prevent water damage, sewage backups, and other sewer-related emergencies that can disrupt business operations and cause financial strain.
Encouraging building owners to sign up for routine maintenance inspections
While the importance of regular sewer inspections is undeniable, motivating commercial building owners to prioritize them can be challenging. However, here is an idea to incentivize and encourage building owners to sign up for such inspections — introduce a Maintenance Inspection Certification Program.
These aren’t just something that you can sign up for elsewhere. There’s no reason why you can’t establish your own. Here’s one I created just to use as an example for this article:
The Maintenance Inspection Certification Program (MICP) is a voluntary initiative aimed at improving the overall sewer infrastructure of commercial buildings. By participating in this program, building owners would receive a certification that recognizes their commitment to regular sewer inspections.
Public recognition: Participating commercial buildings would be acknowledged as "MICP Certified" establishments through prominent signage or a digital seal. This recognition would not only demonstrate their dedication to maintaining the health and safety of their sewer systems but also serve as positive publicity, enhancing their reputation among tenants, customers, and stakeholders.
Building owners could proudly display their certification, showcasing their investment in maintaining quality infrastructure. The MICP certification would send a clear message to the community about the owner's commitment to the well-being of their commercial building and the environment. This recognition could attract potential tenants and customers who prioritize safety and sustainability, ultimately benefiting the owner's business in the long run.
Financial benefits: Building owners enrolled in the MICP would be eligible for financial incentives and discounts on both inspection services and potential repair costs through your company.
By accessing discounted rates for inspection services, building owners could reduce the financial burden associated with regular sewer inspections. Such financial benefits provide a clear incentive for building owners to sign up for routine inspections and actively contribute to the longevity and sustainability of their sewer systems.
Regulatory compliance: The MICP would offer building owners a resource hub that keeps them informed about local, state, and federal regulations pertaining to sewer infrastructure maintenance. This could include updates on changing rules, requirements, and emerging best practices, ensuring that commercial buildings remain proactive in adhering to compliance standards.
Navigating the complex landscape of regulatory compliance can be challenging for business owners. Through the MICP, building owners would gain access to you and your professionals who are up to date on regulations. By staying informed about changes in regulations, they could avoid penalties and legal issues while maintaining a safe and sustainable sewer system.
Pretty good, right? Just make your own thing and own it. Market it. It’s a way to get businesses involved in a program that can generate income for you and a proactive maintenance plan for them.
About the Author
Anthony Pacilla is a registered master plumber for McVehil Plumbing in Washington, Pennsylvania. He has over two decades of experience in the plumbing and HVAC trades and has a bachelor’s in business and economics from Thiel College.
