Seeking Guidance on Sewer Backup Issue – McAllen, TX Rental Property

[Rohit Dhing]

I own a fourplex in McAllen, TX, and recently dealt with a major plumbing issue. A few days ago, one of the units experienced a toilet backup. The plumber determined that the issue was caused by someone driving over the cleanout, breaking the pipe. The repair was extensive and costly, requiring excavation (about 3x6 feet) to replace the broken section and clean up the mess. Once fixed, the plumber confirmed everything was working 100%.

Fast forward 3–4 days, and now multiple units are reporting toilet backups. When the plumber removed the cleanout cap, water started coming out. Upon inspection, they found sanitary napkins and assumed that was the issue. They snaked the lines from the affected unit, which temporarily resolved the problem. However, after waiting and testing again, the backup reoccurred.

At this point, the plumber snaked the line from the cleanout towards the city’s main sewer line. The cleanout is about 10-15 feet from the curb, but they had to snake 70 feet, suggesting a potential city sewer issue.

The plumber mentioned that if I report this to the city, they will likely request a secondary cleanout closer to the curb, which I would have to install at my expense (a costly job). Only after water is visibly coming out of this secondary cleanout would the city take responsibility and investigate further.

Questions & Concerns:

• Does this process make sense from the plumber’s perspective?
• What if I install the secondary cleanout and the issue still persists? The plumber insists that this is definitely a city issue, but I’d like to hear from others who have dealt with similar situations.
• Would the city reimburse or help cover part of the expenses for the secondary cleanout?
• Can I call the city directly to file a complaint? The plumber mentioned that they can lodge a complaint, but it may take a few days. However, they have a direct contact in the department who can come out sooner once the secondary cleanout starts backing up again.

Would appreciate any advice or insight from those who have dealt with a similar situation!