Sewer Line Repair in Smithfield, NC

Who handles sewer in Smithfield?

The Town of Smithfield operates its own sewer collection system, and Johnston County's interceptors run through town to carry wastewater to the Central Johnston County Regional Wastewater Facility south of Smithfield, which is permitted for 9.5 MGD of discharge to the Neuse River. So the pipes under town streets are the Town's, treatment is the County's, and the line from your house to the Town's main is yours.

The fact sheets don't show where the Town's responsibility ends on a sewer service. If a camera shows a break near the street, call the Town before paying for work there.

Why does an older Smithfield house have sewer trouble?

Smithfield is the historic Johnston County seat, and its housing shows it: median build year 1973, with about 65% of homes built before 1980. Many of those homes, including the blocks around the Downtown Smithfield Historic District, have clay or cast iron sewer pipe. Clay pipe is laid in short lengths with many joints, which is where roots get in. Cast iron rusts inside, roughening the walls and eventually cracking. Both settle over decades, creating low spots that collect waste and lead to clogs that keep coming back.

If a line has been cleaned several times for the same problem, that usually means the pipe itself needs attention. A camera inspection shows whether it's one bad joint or damage along the run.

Who issues the permit for a repair?

Johnston County Building Inspections has been contracted to manage building permit inspections for the Town of Smithfield, and the Town's planning department issues zoning permits first. The plumber doing the repair usually knows the steps and applies for what's needed. Ask about permits when you review the repair plan.

Local note

Smithfield sits on the Neuse River, and older yards here often have large trees. Roots from trees near the line's path are one of the most common causes of repeat clogs in old clay pipe, so mention any big trees between the house and the street when you call.

It also helps to know whether your house has an outside cleanout. Many older Smithfield homes were built without one, and a plumber may suggest adding it during the repair so the line can be cleaned or inspected later without pulling a toilet. Keep water use low until the line is checked.