Clairmont Heights Civic Association

From local resident Don Sprinkle: "As a former 'underground-utility / road' contractor, I can tell you from my experience what I believe is a "reasonable" expectation regarding repairs after damage to your property.  This is based solely on my past experiences, and I assume no liability for any outcomes:

1)       Utility breaks (water lines or sewer services):  1)  notify DeKalb Co. Plumbing department of break (404) 371-2531 - have to reach them before 7:30 am or after 3:00 pm, and give them a chance to inspect for the reason that the break may affect the main line;  2)  replacement
with like materials (call Fergusen Underground (770) 499-2030 for what should be used depending upon what you have); 3) properly compacted soil
put back in hole - can't just push the dirt back in at one time - should place in separate layers, compacting between each placement);  4) keep a
reminder of what was broken, when and by whom - picture is helpful - for future record in case problems result.

2)       Broken curb or driveway concrete:  1)  broke section neatly cut out with a street saw - not just chipped away so that a ragged edge is left;  2) sub-soil compacted, and a granular fill (i.e. sand or fine gravel) used to top off any voids;  3)  new concrete placed even and clean to match the existing.

3)       Torn asphalt:  1)  torn section neatly cut out with a street saw - about 1 foot beyond the damaged section all around - cuts should be straight and square;  2) sub-soil compacted, or granular fill placed; 3) bitumine primer applied to existing edge face;  4) use hot asphalt for the repair - a cold patch may be made temporarily for small holes - but for a permanent fix to a steet/driveway interface, only hot asphalt will work - and rolled with a roller-compactor.

4)       Yard damage: 1) debris removed;  2) ruts filled in - initially fill soil should stand higher than surrounding, it will even out after settling in a few weeks; 3) mulch or top soil replaced; 3) sod or seed and straw laid.

At all times be considerate.  The work these crews are doing is very difficult, and in some cases even dangerous.  Don't be harsh if they do cause damage - more often than not there was nothing they could have done to prevent it - really!!.  Simply be kind in letting them know you fully expect a proper repair.  And document it.

Donald Sprinkle, PE
Turner Properties, Inc.
(404) 827-3835 ofc
(404) 227-7501 cell