Frequently Asked Questions

Things to do if you drop something down the drain:

• Stop using water immediately (all water sources.) Water can only push the item further down the line.
• Remove trap if possible. The item may have settled in the trap.
• You may have to remove the toilet if that is where the item was dropped.
• If item wasn't retrieved from the trap, call a plumber that has an inspection camera.

Things to do if the item was "dropped" in the drain but not noticed until later:

• Stop using water immediately (all water sources.) Water can only push the item further down the line.
• Inspect the traps. Sometimes you may get lucky if the item is heavy.

What the City can do:

• The City can inspect the lateral if a cleanout is available at the property line.
• The City can inspect the downstream manhole.
• The City can inspect the sewer main line with CCTV.
• Fees for inspections are $250 plus $100 each additional hour.

What the City cannot do:

• The City cannot do any inspections on private property nor can the City use CCTV equipment in privately owned utility lines.

If the item is not found it is likely beyond retrieval. Email the City Water and Sewer Department or call 540-375-3029. You can also email the Roanoke Regional Water Pollution Control Plant or call 540-853-5700 with a detailed description of the lost item, the address of the location where the item was lost, and your contact information. If possible, attach a picture of the lost item.

Swimming pools can be discharged to the sanitary sewer system. Traditional chlorine pools can be de-chlorinated and then discharged to the storm sewer system.

The only items that should ever be washed down the sink or flushed down the toilet are natural, organic materials that would break apart easily in one's hands. Here are some examples of things that should never be poured down the drain:

• Fats, oils, or grease (FOG)
• Wet wipes, diapers, sanitary napkins, tampons, paper towels, cardboard, or cloth. See Sewer backups and overflows.
• Medicine, paint, pesticides, and other hazardous materials

Fats, Oils & Grease (FOG)

Inflow and Infiltration