Cleanout
Definition and meaning of Cleanout in real estate.
A cleanout is an accessible pipe fitting with a removable cap or plug connected to a building drainage system, allowing plumbers to insert snakes or cameras to clear blockages. In masonry, a cleanout also refers to an opening at the base of a chimney used to remove ash and soot.
In more detail
Plumbing cleanouts are strategically located along main sewer lines and under sinks to make maintenance easier. They are typically found outside the foundation wall, in basement floors, or inside utility rooms. Having a cleanout saves homeowners money because plumbers can clear clogs directly without dismantling fixtures or digging up pipes.
For properties with fireplaces, the chimney cleanout door is usually located at the base of the chimney stack, often in a basement or on the home exterior. Buyers should verify the location of plumbing cleanouts during their home inspection walk-through.
Key facts
| Category | Property Types & Construction |
|---|---|
| Common Materials | PVC, ABS, or cast iron for plumbing; steel or cast iron for chimneys |
| Key Benefit | Allows direct access to clear clogs or remove ash |
| Typical Location | Near the foundation, under sinks, or at the chimney base |
When a main sewer line backs up into a home, the plumber opens the exterior PVC cleanout in the front yard to snake the line and remove a tree root obstruction.
Frequently asked questions
Where is the main plumbing cleanout usually located?
It is typically a pipe with a threaded cap sticking out of the ground near the front or side foundation wall, or located directly in the basement floor.
Do all homes have plumbing cleanouts?
Most modern homes are required by building codes to have them, but older homes may lack cleanouts, making sewer maintenance more difficult.