Key Takeaways:
- A sewer line repair can be detected through a foul smell and dirty standing water.
- You can also tell if a repair is needed if there are frequent backups and clogged drains.
- Weird sounds may also detect a sewage problem.
- If you detect any issue, you must immediately call a plumbing service to assess the problem.
Due to staying hidden underground, sewer lines are often out of sight and out of mind—that is, until something goes wrong. Sometimes you won’t even know there’s a problem until sewage starts backing up into your home!
Sewer line repair should not be put off. If you think there may be an issue with your sewerage, it’s best to call a professional immediately. But how can you detect if there’s a problem in the first place? Bill’s Plumbing & Sewer shares ten signs of needing sewer repair.
Signs You Need a Repair
1. Your Drains Constantly Back Up
If your drains are constantly backing up, it’s a sign your sewer line is blocked. Blocked pipelines can cause sewage to back into your home, which can be a health hazard. Bacteria and virus-laden water can cause serious illness, so it’s best to have a professional take a look as soon as possible.
2. You Have Multiple Drain Clogs
If you have multiple drain clogs, it’s another sign that your sewer line is blocked. A single blocked drain can cause sewer backup into your home, but multiple blockages can cause even more sewage to back up. Look for water pooling around your drains, slow draining, or water backing up out of your drains.
3. Your Toilet Frequently Backs Up
If your toilet frequently backs up, it’s a sign of a problem with your sewer line. Sewage backing up into your bathroom can be a health hazard and signals for calling in a plumbing service company.
4. There is Sewage on Your Property
The sewage material can seep out when too much water is trying to go through a blocked sewer line. The sewage may also come out of the cleanout pipe. The sewerage is problematic if you see a blackish mass or sewage on your property.
5. There is an Odor Coming From Your Drains
When sewage backs up your home, it can cause an unpleasant odor. If you notice any bad smell coming from your drains, the sewer line may be the reason.
6. Your Water Bill is Higher Than Usual
The problems associated with sewers often lead to water leaks. If your water bill is significantly higher than it used to be, sewer backup may be the culprit. The problem happens because water seeps through cracks in sewer pipes and flows into the ground, which leads to higher water bills.
7. You Hear Gurgling Sounds Coming From the Drains
Air blockages in the sewer line often cause gurgling sounds from your drains. The blockages prevent sewer gases from flowing freely, and they start making strange noises or even cause backups.
8. Your Yard is Soggy or Flooded
A broken or damaged sewer line can lead to a soggy or flooded yard. Puddles of water accompanied by a suspicious and nasty smell can be a telltale sign that your sewage is going bad.
Tips for Hiring a Sewer Line Repair Service
Get Multiple Quotes
Getting multiple quotes is essential when looking for a sewer line replacement service. This will help you to compare costs (which depend on the area) and match to the best providers in your area.
Check Reviews
Before hiring a sewer repair service, be sure to check online reviews. You can attain some satisfaction that the plumbing service you’re considering is reputable by checking to see the opinion of other clients.
Get a Warranty
Don’t forget to get a warranty when hiring a sewer line repair service. This will protect you in case there are any problems with the repair work. The last thing you want with your sewer line is to go worse.
Ask About the Experience of the Technician
When hiring a plumbing service for sewer repair, ask about the technician’s experience who will be doing the work. This will ensure that you’re getting someone who knows what they’re doing and can do a good job.
Other FAQs
What Materials are Used in Modern Sewer Lines?
Modern sewer lines are often made of materials like PVC, HDPE, or cast iron. These materials are durable and resistant to corrosion, but over time, they can still develop issues due to tree root intrusion, shifting soil, or other external factors.
Does Home Insurance Cover Sewer Pipe Replacement?
Sewer repairs typically aren’t covered by standard homeowners’ insurance policies. However, some insurance providers offer add-on coverage or specific sewer line insurance, so it’s best to check with your insurance company.
How Long Do Repairs Take?
The time required for a sewer line repair depends on the extent of the damage. Minor repairs might take a few hours, while more extensive work could take a few days. During this process, your water and sewer services might be temporarily interrupted, so it’s important to plan accordingly for minimal disruption to your daily activities.
How Do I Prevent Future Sewer Line Issues?
While sewer line repairs can address immediate concerns, regular maintenance and inspections can help prevent future problems. You can also take steps like avoiding flushing non-degradable items and controlling root growth around your sewer lines to ensure they last longer without requiring frequent repairs.
If you notice any of the signs mentioned above, don’t delay—call Bill’s Plumbing and Sewer today.
Get your free repair estimate today!


