Cast Iron Sewer Infrastructure Rehabilitation – Multifamily Property

Initial Conditions

Property management reported:

Previous corrective efforts consisted primarily of conventional snaking and spot cleaning procedures, which provided only temporary relief.

• Recurring backups affecting lower-level fixtures
• Slow drainage across multiple branch lines
• Frequent emergency service calls
• Concerns regarding aging cast iron infrastructure
• Potential slab and finish demolition costs

Diagnostic Assessment

WTS Construction implemented a camera-first diagnostic protocol utilizing:

The inspection revealed:

Rather than recommending immediate full-system replacement, the findings supported a staged rehabilitation approach focused on restoring functionality while preserving the existing infrastructure where feasible.

Rehabilitation Strategy

WTS Construction developed a phased rehabilitation plan consisting of the following steps.

1. High-Pressure Hydraulic Descaling

   Commercial-grade hydro jetting equipment was utilized to remove decades of internal scale buildup and restore pipe flow capacity.

2. Precision Mechanical Cleaning

   Targeted descaling procedures were performed to prepare deteriorated cast iron surfaces for rehabilitation evaluation.

3. Post-Cleaning CCTV Verification

   A secondary camera inspection was conducted following descaling to verify pipe integrity and determine rehabilitation viability.

4. Trenchless Rehabilitation Planning

   Sections identified as structurally recoverable were designated for trenchless rehabilitation and future lining integration, minimizing demolition and occupant disruption.

Results

The property management team was also provided with recorded inspection footage, condition documentation, maintenance recommendations, and long-term infrastructure planning guidance.

• Significant restoration of hydraulic flow capacity
• Elimination of recurring blockage conditions
• Reduced emergency maintenance calls
• Avoidance of extensive slab demolition
• Extended service life of existing infrastructure
• Minimal disruption to occupied residential units

Key Advantages of the WTS Approach

1. Diagnostic-First Methodology

   All recommendations were based on verified camera inspection data rather than assumptions or temporary symptom-based repairs.

2. Asset Preservation Focus

   The strategy prioritized rehabilitation and infrastructure recovery before considering invasive replacement procedures.

3. Minimal Occupant Disruption

   The trenchless and non-invasive approach significantly reduced downtime, demolition, and impact to tenants.

4. Long-Term Infrastructure Planning

   The client received actionable documentation supporting future capital planning and preventative maintenance scheduling.