Newer homes, different problems
South Tempe developed later than the rest of the city. Most homes in 85284 were built in the 1980s and 1990s, so the sewer questions here are less about century-old pipe and more about maturing landscaping, grease and daily wear.
- Maturing trees. Trees planted when these neighborhoods were new are now 30 to 40 years old, with root systems to match. See root removal.
- Kitchen grease. Grease is a common cause of main line clogs at any age. See hydro jetting.
- Settling. Where backfill was not well compacted, a line can sag over the years. See belly repair.
Buying or selling in 85284
Newer homes can still have sewer problems. A pre-purchase sewer scope during the inspection period shows the line's condition before closing.
A note on the ZIP boundary
ZIP 85284 includes parts of both Tempe and Chandler. If you are not sure which city provides your sewer service, check your utility bill before calling the city about a problem in the main.
Who owns the sewer line?
In Tempe, the homeowner is responsible for the sewer line from the house to the city's sewer main, including clogs, roots and breaks in that line. The city maintains the main. If homes around you are backing up at the same time, the main may be the problem, and the City of Tempe's Wastewater Collection group maintains it.
Sewer questions in 85284
My house is from the 1990s. Can it have sewer problems?
Yes. Roots, grease and settling affect newer lines too. The cause is usually different from older homes, which is why a camera inspection helps.
How do I know if the city or I own the problem?
In Tempe, the line from your house to the city main is yours. If neighbors are backing up at the same time, the city main may be involved.
Is Warner Ranch covered?
Yes. This page covers homes and businesses throughout ZIP 85284.