How to avoid damage to pipes when building a retaining wall?

[kmmoon100]

I am considering DIY retaining walls for altogether up to around 60-70 metres on my new property. One thing that makes me worry is potential damage on existing pipe to stormwater system under the ground while using an auger.. How do you avoid this issue?  My builder told me that they can’t pinpoint where the pipes are accurately as the design in the building permit is a guidance. Thanks!

[JacobZ]

Hi @kmmoon100,

Thank you for your question and welcome to the Bunnings Workshop community, it is fantastic to have you join us.

Unfortunately, the builder is correct that the building plans can be used as a guide, but they are not always accurate to the millimetre. It is still a good guide to use for avoiding these services, but there is not a 100% guarantee that the services were put in in the exact location they are shown on the building plans.

If the pipe running through your property is a stormwater pipe, and not a pressurised mains water pipe, if you were to hit it, this is not too difficult to repair, but it would likely require the assistance of a plumber. 

I'd suggest contacting Before You Dig Australia (BYDA) for advice and if you are still not confident, you might like to consider contacting a company that specialises in leak detection as they are likely able to map out pipe locations on your behalf.

Let me know if you have any further questions.

Jacob