Found A Hole

clcrider7

Hi everyone. My name is Carolee and I've just completed a 5 month program preparing myself to take the landscape California contractor's test. But I seem to have run into my first snag and cound use some advice. I was putting in a french drain when I ran across an old covered water main , I opened it and started to clean out all the soil. As I was cleaning the soil sorta dropped through and there was a hole at least 5ft deep and as far as I could see left to right. It appears to be running towards the home. (Hence their drainage problem). My first instinct was the water had been leaking for years and I wanted to call the water dept. But, I dont want to open a can of worms for the home owners. Should I call the water dept. Should I call in a few contractors. Or an engineer for a soil test. What advice can I give the owners. The home is located on the coast of California. It was built in 1907.

denick

clc,

You should tell the owners and show them. You should then tell them this is not something in your field of experience. You could offer your services (get paid for) to help if they would like you to in any way that you are comfortable. DON'T EXCEPT RESPONSIBILITY FOR THE OUTCOME!

We've uncovered many old lines and drains, there can be serious consequences to the handling them when handled correctly. DON'T try and cover up anything no matter what the owners ask! It's YOU who will be held accountable!

__________________
Nick

"Every day I remind myself that my inner and outer life are based on the labors of other men, living and dead, and that I must exert myself in order to give in the same measure as I have received and am still receiving" Albert Einstein

jensenconstruction

I agree with denick, especially in Ca where you can get sued for just looking the wrong way.