BCAB #1379 - Storm Drain Cleanout Fitting, Sentence 2.9.3.(1), B.C. Plumbing Code

Last updated on March 24, 2016

January 18, 1995

BCAB #1379

Re: Storm Drain Cleanout Fitting, Sentence 2.9.3.(1), B.C. Plumbing Code

Project Description

The subject of this appeal is the use of a removable section of an external rainwater leader as a cleanout for a storm drain system.

Reason for Appeal

Sentence 2.9.3.(1) states that a cleanout fitting that cannot withstand the physical stresses of removal and reinstallation or cannot ensure a gas-tight seal as a result of normal maintenance operations shall not be used.

Appellant's Position

The appellant contends that a 12" section of downspout or a downspout elbow attached to the bottom of the downspout below the wall bracket with screws along with the cap to cover the open end of the nominally vertical storm drain branch is an acceptable cleanout fitting. The appellant considers the short section of downspout or the elbow and the stub cap comply with Sentence 2.9.3.(1) because they can be removed and replaced repeatedly without damage.

Building Official's Position

The building official maintains they do not accept downspout branches as cleanouts because many installations do not incorporate offsets or removable sections and the entire downspout would have to be removed. This will eventually lead to damage to certain types of building finishes.

Appeal Board Decision #1379

It is the determination of the Board that, by the definition in Part 1, a cleanout must be acceptable to the authority having jurisdiction. The Board does not have the authority to determine what is acceptable to an authority having jurisdiction.

George R. Humphrey, Chair