A Hard, Crappy problem

[Bryan Feik]

Warning, this post is not for the faint of heart but I true problem I am faced with!

I have paid to have plumbers snake a bathroom sewer line 3 times in the last year for one particular tenant. The plumber told me each time he snakes the line, very hard stools (described as large potatoes) come up through the line fully in tact! As the problem has continued, the plumber recommends a macerating toilet – think toilet attached to a garbage disposal.

My question is, what obligation do I have to replace a functioning toilet with a $1000 super-powered one? The tenant is in poor health and has tried stool softeners to help with the problem with varying levels of success. He has learned to snake the line himself which fixes the issue but is requesting I come up with a different solution.

Any thoughts, advice, or even jokes would be much appreciated!

[Amos Mainville]

As a home inspector I would advise getting a video inspection performed to validate noting has collapsed in the line slowing flow.

I would check that it's not a "eco" or "low flow"  water conserving toilet as they only exacerbate the issue

lastly. Peace of mind would be worth the 1000$ super pooper. As an engineer I design my properties to incorporate anything that saves me maintenance phone calls. I never want a tenant performing maintenance either. They are more likely to cover up damage than a hired professional.