If you have received a cease and desist notice issued by the DEP, there is a good chance it has caught you by surprise, and you need assistance understanding why this has occurred.
Most commonly, the investigation process for a broken sewer will start if there is a large sinkhole under the roadway or sidewalk. In a case like this, you are probably aware of the sinkhole but never thought that this could be your responsibility. In other cases, there may be a small depression that you may not have noticed, as this is a common occurrence in the streets of NYC.
Another common issue that would lead to a cease is if your sewage line is broken and leaking into a neighboring home. In this case, the neighboring property owner may have reported the issue to DEP, which is required to assist in determining the source of the sewage leak.
The final most common factor that would lead to an investigation is if another utility contractor is working under the roadway or sidewalk and has come across the broken pipe, which is now creating a hazardous condition to work in.
Understanding a DEP cease violation is important to prevent further complications. It’s essential to get professional advice to address the issue promptly and avoid future fines.
How does DEP know it’s your sewer?
There are two types of inspections the DEP will perform before concluding on the broken sewer. The first is a camera inspection, which will display a picture on the inside of your sewer and determine if and where the breaks are along the sewer pipe.
The other option would be a dye test, this is where they will insert green dye from the inside of your home and after a few minutes, the dye will show up in the location of the sewage leak if it is your sewer that is broken.
DEP inspections, such as camera or dye tests, are vital in determining responsibility. If you suspect a sewer issue, contact a professional for guidance and possible assistance with the DEP inspection process.
How to resolve the cease and desist notice?
First, it is important that you understand the location of your sewer break, the condition of the existing sewer line, and at this time you can make an educated decision on a partial repair or a full sewer line replacement.
It is important not to ignore the violation, as you may incur additional fines, in addition to the city turning off the water to your home.
If you have been issued a cease, it is important to consult with a trusted licensed master plumber, share all of the information you have obtained, and strategize on the next best step specific to your property.
Ignoring a DEP violation can lead to severe consequences, including water shut-offs. It’s crucial to address the issue promptly with professional help to avoid complications and ensure compliance.
Important Contacts for Assistance
If you need help resolving DEP violations, DEP customer service is available to answer any questions you may have. You can also file DEP complaints if you believe a mistake was made in the inspection process or violation issuance.
For issues related to water, DEP provides customer service for any water-related concerns or DEP water customer service inquiries. Be sure to reach out to DEP NYC customer service for guidance during the process.
For assistance, always consult DEP customer service to address violations or complaints efficiently. Their knowledgeable team can provide the necessary resources and steps to resolve your issue.
