Am I on a Septic or City Sewer System? March 26, 2025

Have you ever had a slow-draining sink, a backed-up toilet, or a sudden plumbing issue and thought, “Where does all this wastewater actually go?” If you’re not sure whether your home is connected to a sewer system or has a septic system, you’re not alone. Many homeowners don’t think about it until there’s a problem — or until it’s time for maintenance.

Knowing which sewer system your home uses can make a big difference in how you handle plumbing issues, who is responsible for repairs, and what maintenance you’ll need to keep things running smoothly. At WeCo Rooter, we’ve helped homeowners figure out their septic and city sewer systems, troubleshoot problems, and avoid costly surprises.

If you’re unsure what kind of system your home has, this guide will help you determine whether you’re on a septic system or city sewer system, explain the key differences, and outline what it means for your plumbing.

How to Determine if Your Home Uses a Septic or Sewer System

If you’re unsure which system your home uses, here are a few simple ways to find out.

1. Check Your Water Bill

If you pay a monthly sewer bill to the city or county, your home is most likely connected to a city sewer system. Septic system owners do not receive a sewer bill since their wastewater is handled on-site.

2. Look for a Septic Tank Cover

Walk around your yard and check for a large, round, or rectangular lid — typically located in the backyard or near the side of the house. This is the access point for a septic system.

3. Find Your Home’s Sewer Cleanout Pipe

Homes connected to a city sewer system usually have a sewer cleanout pipe (a short white or black pipe with a cap) near the foundation. If you have one, chances are you’re on a city sewer line.

4. Review Your Property Records

Your home’s deed, survey, or inspection report should state whether the property uses a septic system or is connected to municipal sewer lines.

5. Contact Your Local Municipality

If you’re still unsure, call your local water or public works department. They can confirm whether your home is on the city sewer system or if you have a septic tank.

If you’re unsure whether your home is on a sewer system, check with your local municipality. Homeowners in Columbia can contact Columbia Water, while residents in West Columbia can reach out to West Columbia Public Works. If you’re in Lexington, check with the Lexington County Utilities Department to confirm your home’s connection.

If you live in a different municipality or just aren’t sure where to start, give us a call! We’ll be more than happy to help.

Need help locating your system? Contact WeCo Rooter for a professional inspection.

Key Differences Between Septic and City Sewer Systems

While both systems remove wastewater from your home, they function in different ways.

Waste Management: A septic system stores and treats wastewater on-site, whereas a city sewer system sends it to a municipal treatment facility.
Maintenance: Septic systems require pumping every three to five years, while city sewer systems are maintained by the city.
Cost: Homeowners with septic systems avoid monthly sewer bills but are responsible for pumping and repairs. City sewer users pay monthly fees, but maintenance is covered by the city.
Location: Septic systems are more common in rural and suburban areas, while city sewer systems are typically found in urban settings.

Pros and Cons of a Septic System vs. City Sewer

Both septic systems and city sewer systems have their advantages and drawbacks. Here’s what homeowners should consider.

Septic System Pros

No monthly sewer bill
Environmentally friendly — filters wastewater naturally
Provides independence from municipal infrastructure

Septic System Cons

Requires regular pumping and maintenance
Can be overwhelmed by excessive water usage
Repairs are the homeowner’s responsibility

City Sewer System Pros

Minimal maintenance required
Handles high water usage more efficiently
Repairs and maintenance are city-managed

City Sewer System Cons

Monthly sewer fees apply
Can back up during heavy rainfall or infrastructure failures
Not available in all areas

If you have a septic system, regular maintenance is essential to avoid costly repairs. Schedule a septic system inspection with WeCo Rooter today.

How a Septic System Works

A septic system is a self-contained wastewater treatment system commonly used in rural and suburban areas. Here’s how it works.

Wastewater from your home (sinks, toilets, and showers) flows into an underground septic tank.
Solids settle at the bottom, forming sludge, while grease and oils float to the top.
Liquid wastewater flows out into the drain field, where it filters through the soil and is naturally treated.
Over time, solids build up in the septic tank, requiring periodic pumping to prevent overflows and system failures.

Learn more about WeCo Rooter’s expert septic services.

How a City Sewer System Works

A city sewer system connects your home’s plumbing to a larger municipal sewage network. Here’s what happens when you flush or drain water.

Wastewater leaves your home and enters an underground sewer line.
It travels through a network of city pipes to a wastewater treatment facility.
The treatment plant removes contaminants, processes the water, and releases clean water back into the environment.
The city manages repairs, maintenance, and any necessary infrastructure upgrades.

While homeowners don’t have to maintain the city sewer system, they are responsible for keeping their home’s sewer line clear. If you notice slow drains, gurgling toilets, or sewage backups, contact WeCo Rooter for professional sewer line services.

Schedule Your Sewer or Septic Inspection Today

Knowing whether your home is on a septic system or city sewer system helps you plan for maintenance, prevent costly repairs, and make informed decisions about your plumbing.

If you have a septic system, schedule regular inspections and pumping to avoid issues.
If you’re on a city sewer system, watch for drain backups and call a professional if problems arise.

If you’re still unsure about your system or need help with maintenance, WeCo Rooter is here to help.

Schedule an inspection today or call 803-999-WECO (9326).