A: Hi, Bill and Tammy. I get a lot of questions like yours, so you are not alone. Building a new kitchen is stressful enough, and I'm sorry you have the extra stress of facing a potential disaster down the road.

The first thing you need to do is meet with your local building inspector to see if it's even allowed in your area to build over utility lines. If the inspector says you cannot do it, well, then your decision is an easy one: No new kitchen. However, if it is allowed in your area to build over a utility like a sewer line, you face a tough call.

If you decide to go for it, according to all the local codes I know of, you will need to bring in a licensed representative for the utility companies to mark and lay out where every water, gas, sewer, electrical line, etc., is located. (Your inspector can tell you where to call for this service.) That way when you dig, you can be aware of potential hazards and avoid breaking the sewer line before you even build.

Now here is where it gets tough. If it is allowed and you decide to build over the sewer line, you may never have a problem in your lifetime and there will not be an issue. But, in a year, 10 years — who knows? — the line may fail, and your only option may be digging up the old sewer line and replacing it. This could be a financial disaster for you and you could end up losing your home, never mind the kitchen!

I have seen homeowners install driveways or patios over utility lines, but keep in mind they can be cut and patched to get access to the line. I cannot tell you what to do; all I can tell you is to thoroughly research this project with your local officials, your insurance company and your contractors before you start. Otherwise, your dream kitchen could turn into a nightmare!