Sanitary Sewer and Storm Sewer Lateral Rehabilitation Loan Program
The City of Elyria offers a 0% loan for the cost of needed repair or replacement of defective/damaged sanitary sewer laterals, or storm sewer laterals. The program will also cover the disconnection of downspouts from sanitary systems and repair of exterior foundation drains (footer tile). The ultimate goal of the program is to reduce the amount of storm water that reaches the sanitary sewer system.
- The program is available on a first come first served basis, through the Office of the Engineer, for owner occupied 1,2, and 3 family residential properties within the City of Elyria sewer service area.
- The maximum amount allowed is $10,000 or a third of the value of the home.
- The amount paid by the city would be transferred to the Lorain County Auditor as a lien on the property that would be paid, plus a fee from the County, over a ten (10) year period.
- The resident would need to contact the Office of the Engineer at 440-326-1444 to have the property evaluated to see if it is eligible for the program.
- Once approved for the program the resident would need to submit a minimum of two (2) estimates from contractors licensed with the City of Elyria for this type of work.
- A promissory note will be created that the resident would need to sign. Once the promissory note is signed, a purchase order would be created for the amount needed. This would allow the contractor to begin work.
- Once the work is completed, the contractor would submit an invoice to the resident, which would then be submitted to the Office of the Engineer for payment.
Please contact the Office of the Engineer at 440-326-1444 if you have any questions about the program or eligibility for the loan.
For a copy of the Lateral Loan Program Booklet Click Here
Sewer Lateral Loan Program FAQ
What is the program about?
The City of Elyria offers a 0% loan for the cost of needed repair or replacement of defective/damaged sanitary sewer laterals, or storm sewer laterals. The program will also cover the disconnection of downspouts from sanitary systems and repair of exterior foundation drains (footer tile). The ultimate goal of the program is to reduce the amount of storm water that reaches the sanitary sewer system.
How do I know if I qualify?
Property owners can contact the Elyria Engineering Department to verify eligibility. Most owner-occupied property owners of 1, 2 & 3 family residential properties will qualify.
How much can I get for my lateral work?
The maximum amount allowed is $10,000 or one-third of the value of the home (whichever is smaller)
How do I pay back the loan?
The City will assign your loan to your property as a special assessment with the Lorain County Auditor’s Office. When the County Auditor’s Office processes the special assessment, it will show up on the tax duplicate for the property.
How long do I have to pay back the loan?
The special assessment on your property taxes will be paid back in ten (10) years, or sooner if your property transfers.
Can I get a loan to pay for cleaning the roots out of my sewer lateral?
No, having roots cut out of your lateral or the lateral unplugged are both considered general maintenance. Property owners are responsible for the general maintenance of the lateral from the house to the City sewer main. This is per City Codified Ordinance 932.02(e).
How do I get my lateral cleaned?
Property owners should contact a plumber or sewer contractor experienced in this type of work.
How do I know if my lateral needs repair?
Your plumber/sewer cleaner could tell you that they believe there’s a break in your lateral. Some companies have cameras they can use in the sewer lateral to see the obstruction or break. If the City Wastewater Crew is sent out to investigate the problem, they could find the break in the sewer lateral using their camera. Another option is to dye test the front yard with colored water, which would verify the presence of a leak if dye is found in the sanitary sewer.
Why do I need 2 estimates or quotes to get the loan?
Experiences from other property owners have shown that quotes for the same work can vary greatly. A lateral replacement may range from $5,000 – $12,000 (City only covers up to $10,000), so a little effort on the owner’s part may save a lot of money in the long run. More than two estimates would even be better!
Who do I contact about getting the loan program?
Contact the City of Elyria Engineering Department at 440-326-1444 and ask for Jade.