Commercial Plumbing in Hyattsville, MD

Problems to watch for

• Kitchen and bar drains that need snaking more and more often
• Brown water or low flow from old galvanized supply lines
• Cast iron drain lines weeping at joints in a basement or crawlspace
• Restroom fixtures that run on or won't stop flushing
• A water heater that can't keep up with a new tenant's use
• A WSSC backflow test notice for a fire line or boiler

Local conditions in Hyattsville

Hyattsville is one of the older close-in suburbs, about five miles from downtown Washington. The median home was built in 1963, and the historic district includes late-1880s Victorians and interwar bungalows. Many small commercial buildings along Baltimore Avenue date from the same decades, so cast iron drains, galvanized supply and older sewer laterals turn up regularly, especially when a space changes hands and a new tenant adds a kitchen or extra restrooms. Newer mixed-use buildings around Hyattsville Crossing, University Town Center and the West Hyattsville Metro area bring a different set of calls: booster pumps, large water heaters, shared stacks and backflow assemblies.

WSSC Water treats Potomac and Patuxent River water and disinfects with free chlorine. It says it removed all known lead pipes from its distribution system and is identifying service line materials, including on private property. Water and sewer emergencies go to its Emergency Service Center at 301-206-4002; customer service is 301-206-4001.

Prince George's County states that WSSC issues all plumbing permits and handles plumbing inspections, and that water heater replacements and testable backflow devices need permits even in existing buildings. Backflow assemblies have to be tested every year by a cross-connection technician holding a WSSC license, with results sent electronically by a registered principal master plumber; WSSC's program line is 301-206-4004. Gas water heaters, furnaces and other gas appliances must be replaced by a gasfitter with a WSSC license. Washington Gas serves the area. If anyone smells gas, leave first, then call 911 and 844-WASHGAS (927-4427), option 1.

What drives the cost

• How much old pipe is involved and how accessible it is
• Diagnosis first, such as a camera run on a cast iron line
• Working nights or weekends around restaurant and retail hours
• Opening plaster, tile or concrete in older buildings
• WSSC permits and inspections
• Coordinating with a landlord or condo association

When you call

Describe the space, what's wrong and whether the business can stay open. You'll be connected with an independent local plumber who handles commercial jobs in Hyattsville. Ask how the first visit is priced and whether they can work before opening.