Your home’s sewer line is responsible for transferring wastewater to a drain far from the property. This protects you and those who live with you from exposure to dirty water and contaminants. Unfortunately, sewer lines are not impenetrable, and they can develop issues like the ones below that require immediate attention.

1. Cracks in Your Foundation

Some cracks in your home’s foundation are normal. They occur over time as the concrete settles. However, new or very large cracks can indicate a damaged sewer line. This comes from water leakage that causes the underlying soil to expand. Eventually this creates pressure that can lift your home and cause extreme property damage.

2. Foul Odors

A good indicator that your sewer line needs repairs is a foul odor. The sewage smell will come from gases leaking out of the sewer line. This smell should not be ignored. Make sure that you contact a professional if you notice a persistent bad odor in your home.

3. Waste in the Yard

It can be surprising to discover wastewater in your yard, but this is because your sewer line runs underneath it. Sewer lines are connected to cesspools or septic tanks, which are buried in your yard. When waste begins to accumulate, you will find it coming up through the soil. Potential causes include a cracked sewer line, a septic tank failure, or even a clogged drain field.

4. Lush Grass

Is the grass greener where you water it or where your sewer line leaks? If you have a leak in your sewer line, this can cause the grass to flourish due to the addition of natural fertilizer. You’ll typically find that the grass tends to only appear in certain spots of your yard, so keep an eye out for super green patches that stand out from the rest.

5. Pest Problems

Rodents like sewage and, along with insects that live in the sewage system, can easily access your house through a broken pipe. If you find that you have an influx of rodents or pests in your home, it’s a good idea to call a professional plumber for an inspection.

6. Large Trees on Your Property

This isn’t so much a warning sign as a risk factor, but it’s important to mention root invasion is a common cause of sewer line breaks. If a tree’s root structure grows long enough, it can eventually crush and invade sewage pipes. Any old trees in your yard that are extremely large or tall could be contributing to your plumbing problems.

7. Drain Backup

When wastewater backs up into the sink or tub, this is because it is unable to make it through the sewage line. When clearing the drain is ineffective, it’s important to take it a step further and perform a sewer inspection. Usually this is done using a camera that goes down the drain and helps your plumber identify exactly where the issue is and what’s causing the drain blockage.

Sewer Line Repair by Professionals

If you suspect a sewer problem, contact our professional plumbers at Lesco Plumbing, Heating & Cooling for sewer line repair in Caldwell, NJ. We can help get to the bottom of your troubles and find the best solution.