The 8 Clear Signs of a BrokenLeaking Sewer Line

Are you concerned about the state of your sewer line? If so, then you should know that a broken or leaking sewer line can cause serious problems. The good news is that you don’t have to wait until something bad happens before you get it fixed. In fact, you can take action now to prevent future issues.

Your home’s plumbing system consists of pipes, valves, pumps, and other components that connect your house to the city water supply. These pipes are buried underground, and they carry wastewater from your kitchen sink, bathtub, laundry room, etc., to a main sewage pipe that leads to a treatment plant. When these pipes become damaged, they can leak into the soil, causing flooding and damage to your property.

Sewer lines can break due to age, corrosion, tree roots, or even a heavy rainstorm. Once a pipe breaks, it can create a dangerous situation for both you and your family. Fortunately, there are some signs that you can look out for to determine whether your sewer line has a problem.

8 Telltale Signs You Could Have a Broken Sewer Line

1. Water Leaks From Your Sink Drain

If you notice water dripping from your sink drain, this could be an early warning sign that your sewer line may need repair.

This type of leak usually occurs when a small crack develops in the pipe, allowing water to seep through. It’s important to note that if you experience this kind of leak, you shouldn’t try to fix it yourself because doing so could result in further damage to the pipe. Instead, contact a professional plumber as soon as possible.

​

2. Standing Water Around Your Home

If you see standing water around your home, this could mean that your sewer line needs repair. A clogged sewer line will often cause water to back up into your basement or crawlspace, but sometimes, the overflow drains on your roof can also lead to standing water. Regardless of where the water comes from, make sure to call a plumber immediately.

3. Flooding After Heavy Rainstorms

Flooding after a heavy rainfall is another common sign that your sewer line might be broken. If you’ve experienced flooding in your home recently, you should first check to ensure that all of your storm drains are working properly. If not, then you’ll want to contact a plumber right away.

4. Slow Drainage

Slow drainage is one of the most common symptoms of a broken sewer line. This issue typically results in slow draining toilets and sinks, and it can also cause water to pool under your home. Toilets and sinks with slow drainage are more likely to develop leaks than those with normal flow rates.

5. Blocked Drains

A blocked drain is another symptom that indicates that you need to address your sewer line. Make sure that any drains near your foundation are clear of debris. If you find that your drains are full of hair, dirt, or other items, you should contact a plumber rightaway.

6. Burst Pipes

Burst pipes are another common symptom of a broken sewer line, and they’re fairly easy to spot. If you hear loud noises coming from your walls or floors, or if you smell gas, this could indicate that your pipe has burst.

7. Stinky Odors

Stinky odors are another common symptom of an unrepaired sewer line. If you have a foul odor emanating from your basement or crawlspace (or anywhere else), this could be a sign that your sewer line is leaking.

8. Cracked Walls & Floors

Cracks in your floor or wall are a major red flag that something is wrong with your sewer line. These cracks could be caused by a number of different issues, including:

– Tree Roots – Roots growing inside your sewer line can cause serious problems for both your plumbing system and your house.

– Debris – Over time, tree roots and other debris can grow deep within your sewer line and cause blockages.

– Damage – If your sewer line was damaged during construction, it may no longer be able to handle the weight of your home.

– Faulty Pipe – Even if your sewer line appears structurally sound, it could still be damaged internally.

Common sewer line materials and breaks

Sewer lines are made out of various types of material depending on their location and function. The two main components of a sewer line are PVC (polyvinyl chloride) and cast iron. Both of these materials are durable, but they each have their own advantages and disadvantages.

PVC sewer lines are inexpensive and readily available, but they do tend to crack over time. They also don’t last as long as cast iron sewers. Cast iron sewer lines, on the other hand, are much stronger and will last for decades. However, they’re also more expensive to install.

If you suspect that your sewer line is cracked or damaged, you should immediately call a professional plumber. A cracked or damaged sewer line can lead to costly repairs and even structural damage to your home.

​

Signs of a problem with a sewer line

1. Slow Drainage

Slow drainage is one of the first signs that you might have a problem with your sewer line. It’s possible that your toilet or sink won’t flush properly, and it could take several days before your drains start working again.

2. Water Pooling Under Your Home

Water pooling under your home is another common symptom of a leaky sewer line. You’ll know that there’s a problem when you notice standing puddles around your property or when you see water flowing through your lawn.

3. Leaks From Basement To Ground Floor

If you’ve noticed leaks between your basement and ground floor, then you probably have a problem with your sewage line. This is especially true if you live in a newly built home.

4. Flooding In Basement Or Crawl Space

Flooding in your basement or crawl space is another clear warning sign that your sewer line needs repair. If you experience flooding in either area of your home, it’s likely because your sewer line has been compromised.

5. Odors Coming From Basement Or Crawlspace

Odors coming from your basement or crawl space are another common symptom of a broken or leaking sewer line. If you smell anything unpleasant in your basement or crawlspace, this could indicate an issue with your sewage line.

6. Standing Pools Of Water Around Property

Standing pools of water around your property are yet another clear indicator that you need to get your sewer line repaired. These pools could be caused by a number of things, including a clogged drain, a broken pipe, or a faulty valve.

7. Bursted Sink And Bathtub Drains

Bursted sinks and bathtubs are another common symptom of an obstructed or damaged sewer line. When a sink or tub overflows, it’s usually due to a blockage in your pipes.

Conclusion

There are many different signs that you may have a problem with your plumbing system. If any of these symptoms sound familiar to you, you should contact a professional plumber right away.