Drain, Waste & Vent , Pipe TEST Forensic Analysis , Condominium/Co-Op , TX , Mid/High-Rise

Units : 450

Stories : 16

Built : 1981

Duration : 2 weeks

Problem : Unknown degree of DWV pipe system deterioration

Solution : Pipe TEST forensic study and analysis

Forensics on a Failing Drain, Waste & Vent System

Bonaventure Condominiums was experiencing frequent waste leaks from its drain and vent piping. To help the Board of Directors decide what to do, their property manager recommended that SageWater perform a Pipe TEST forensic study (a Technical Evaluation of System Threats). We removed and analyzed three pipe sections and conducted an in-pipe camera inspection. Our study revealed that the single stack drain system was improperly installed. It also showed depleted pipe wall thickness, pitting, scaling, blockages, and improper support and venting. Finally, we confirmed the system degradation would increase, particularly in pipes that branch to homeowner units.

Based on the findings, SageWater recommended a complete repipe. In case the community couldn’t fund the project all at once, we explained how they could prioritize phases. For example, they could repipe floors 1 – 5 first, where the pipes were most compromised, and the renovation would correct the original installation. Using empirical evidence and SageWater insight, the board can make informed decisions going forward.