Your sewer line is one of the hardest-working parts of your home’s plumbing system. It’s responsible for carrying all wastewater safely away—but when something goes wrong, the signs aren’t always easy to spot until it’s too late. Knowing the most common sewer line issues can help you catch problems early and avoid messy, costly repairs.
- Tree Root Intrusion – Tree roots love water, and your sewer line is the perfect target. Roots can sneak into small cracks or joints in the pipe and keep growing until they block the line completely. This often shows up as slow drains or frequent clogs throughout the house.
- Broken, Cracked, or Collapsed Pipes – Over time, sewer pipes can break due to shifting soil, ground settling, or simple aging. When this happens, wastewater can leak into the surrounding ground—or the line may collapse entirely, stopping flow altogether.
- Blockages and Buildup – Grease, hair, wipes, and other debris can build up inside sewer lines. Unlike a simple sink clog, blockages in the main line affect the entire home. If multiple drains are slow or backing up at once, it’s often a sign of a bigger sewer issue.
- Pipe Corrosion or Deterioration – Older homes with cast iron or clay sewer lines may experience corrosion or deterioration over time. As pipes weaken, they’re more likely to break, crack, or collapse, leading to serious plumbing emergencies.
- Bellied or Sagging Lines – A “belly” happens when part of the sewer line sinks, creating a low spot where wastewater collects. Over time, buildup in that sagging area can lead to blockages, backups, and bad odors.
- Sewer Line Offsets or Misaligned Joints – If the joints connecting your sewer pipes shift or separate, they can create spots where waste gets stuck or leaks out. This problem is especially common in older clay or concrete pipes.
Signs You Might Have a Sewer Line Problem:
- Multiple drains clogging at once
- Gurgling sounds from toilets or drains
- Sewage odors around your home or yard
- Wet, soggy patches in the lawn
- Backups in the lowest drain of your home (like a basement floor drain)
Protecting Your Home
Sewer problems can be stressful, but catching them early makes a huge difference. Regular inspections and simple maintenance help keep things flowing smoothly and prevent costly surprises. If you notice warning signs like slow drains or odd smells, don’t wait—our team at De Hart Plumbing, Heating & Cooling can quickly pinpoint the issue with camera inspections and offer repair solutions that fit your home and budget.