Plumbing problem :( any insight appreciated

[Elise Hazzard]

So the tenant complained at a recent quarterly inspection that the laundry did not drain well (washer drains into utility tub, then to sewer line.) plumber who came used "camera" down roof vent pipe and said there was a crack in cast iron pipe somewhere; charged for the visit and advised to call specialized pipe service to video to find crack. Video service performed and service tech said there was hole in bottom elbow where the sewer line connects under slab and they don't fix that but they could add pipe through the garage wall and continue it around house on exterior to meet the main line to city sewer. First plumber thinks it's going to be a big issues because the pipe is behind the hot water heater.  I can't find a plumber who is either experience at this and / or is willing to have the discussion   Several plumbing office staff were only willing to report on the hourly charge and the fact that they can't be expected to know what the charge could be-BTW they don't repair the foundation if they need to break it up.

Does anyone know if homeowners insurance is likely to help with this issue? Sorry for the improper use of any technical jargon here.

Again, any insight appreciated.

Elise

[John K.]

@Elise Hazzard

If the line that has the hole in it is only servicing the utility tub and washer, then you can use a utility pump to reroute the water into the attic space, and connect it to the vent line to drain it. 

I of course am presuming you have at least 2 vent lines in the house. You would not want to connect to the vent that is servicing the broken line. Ideally, you would connect it to the vent line that is responsible for the bathroom. 

https://www.zoellerpumps.com/en-us/products/package-systems/drain-pump

This package is created just for laundry rooms that don't have easy access to a working drain. Will be able to handle the utility sink, with no issue. 

This will save you quite a bit of money. Ideally this pump is buried in the ground, but it is not necessary. The "sump" has gasket material to make it air tight, so there is no risk of odors. 

Hope that helps!