10 Warning Signs You Need Sewer Repair/Replacement
10 Warning Signs You Need Sewer Repair or Replacement
Sewer problems are one of the worst surprises a homeowner can face. A damaged or failing sewer line can cause everything from clogged drains to costly property damage — and it often starts with subtle signs you might overlook.
If you notice any of the following issues, it may be time to call a licensed plumber to inspect your sewer system. The earlier you act, the better chance you have of avoiding a full-blown disaster.
1. 🐀 Sudden Rodent or Pest Infestation
If you’re seeing an increase in rats, mice, or bugs around your property — especially near your foundation or basement — it may not just be a pest problem. A broken sewer line can attract these unwanted guests due to the odor and access to moisture.
🗣️ “Why are rats showing up near my home?”
It might be time to check your sewer line, not just call pest control.
2. 💸 Unexplained Spikes in Your Water Bill
Have your water bills gone up with no change in usage? A hidden leak in your sewer or water lines could be to blame. Damaged pipes may allow water to escape underground, costing you money without any visible symptoms — until it gets worse.
3. 🌧 Wet Spots on the Lawn (When It Hasn’t Rained)
Soggy patches or standing water in your yard, especially near sewer cleanouts or foundations, are a clear warning sign. This may indicate a leak or break in your underground sewer line, especially if the puddles have a foul smell.
4. 💩 Foul-Smelling Standing Water
You should never smell raw sewage outside your home. If you notice a sewage odor in your yard, basement, or drains, your system is not working correctly. Don’t ignore it — it’s a clear sign your sewer line may be leaking or backed up.
5. 🚿 Multiple Drains Clogging at Once
If your toilet, sink, and shower are all draining slowly — or backing up at the same time — the problem is likely deeper than a localized clog. You may be facing a blockage or collapse in your main sewer line.
6. 🌊 Gurgling Sounds From Your Drains
Do your drains or toilets make a gurgling noise when not in use? That’s often the sound of trapped air caused by a blockage or damaged pipe. It’s an early red flag of pressure problems in the system and a common sign of sewer trouble.
7. 🚽 Toilet Water Levels That Fluctuate
Toilet bowls that randomly fill higher or lower than usual — especially without being flushed — could signal a venting issue, clog, or sewer line crack. This can also lead to overflow during storms or heavy water use.
8. 🌳 Tree Root Intrusion
Roots from trees and large shrubs are a major cause of sewer line damage. If you’ve noticed slow drains, sinkholes, or backed-up toilets and you have mature trees near your line, root intrusion could be the cause.
9. ⏳ Aging Sewer Line
If your sewer line is more than 40–50 years old, it may be made of materials like clay or cast iron that are prone to breaking down over time. Even if you're not seeing active problems yet, older lines should be inspected to avoid future surprises.
10. 🔧 Cracked, Broken, or Collapsed Pipes
This one’s as clear as it gets. If your sewer pipes are cracked, corroded, or completely broken, replacement is likely necessary. Causes range from ground shifts to root invasion or long-term wear. Pipe repair or trenchless replacement may be the best solution depending on the damage.
Sewer Repairs Aren’t Just Necessary — They Protect Your Home’s Value
A home with sewer issues can quickly become unlivable, unsellable, and unsafe. While repairs can be an investment, they protect your property, health, and peace of mind — and they prevent the problem from snowballing into a far more expensive disaster.
At Quality Plumbing Services Inc., we specialize in fast, honest, and professional sewer inspections, repairs, and replacements across the Chicagoland area. We’ll help you identify the issue and provide the best solution — whether it’s a minor fix or a full system replacement.
📞 Call today to schedule your sewer line inspection.
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