Do You Need Sewer Line Repair? Here’s How to Tell

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Every single day, homeowners across New Jersey face sewer problems that are inconvenient, expensive, and downright unsanitary. If you suspect sewer issues of your own, it’s important to schedule repairs right away to avoid even bigger issues down the road. Below are five of the most common signs and symptoms that you need immediate sewer line repair. 

You Can Smell Sewer Gas

One of the first symptoms of a sewer-related issue is the presence of sewer gas odors. In a complete and intact system, you should never smell the telltale sulfuric odor of sewer gas, so if you’re noticing it here and there – no matter how mild or how infrequent it might be – it’s an indication that something has gone wrong. Sewer gas is smelly and toxic, so make sure you call for a plumbing professional right away. 

You’re Experiencing Blockages

A toilet or drain clog here and there is nothing to be too concerned about, but if it’s happening frequently, there’s likely a sewer problem that needs to be addressed. Toilets that don’t flush (or don’t flush completely) or sinks and tubs that refuse to drain are all commonly associated with sewer line problems. It could be a serious clog deep within the system, tree roots that have entered the sewer line, or a broken sewer line. All of these require immediate professional attention. 

Your Yard is Wet, Even Though it Hasn’t Rained

If you’ve noticed that your lawn is soggy even though it hasn’t rained, it’s likely a broken water or sewer line. You can rule out the broken water line diagnosis by shutting off all the taps inside your home, then checking your water meter to see if it is moving. If it is, then you have your answer; if it isn’t, then the issue is likely related to the sewer. Either way, you should contact a plumber right away to resolve the issue before it leads to serious damage or personal injury. 

The Water Level in Your Toilet Bowl is Inconsistent

The water level in your toilet bowls should remain consistent day after day. If the bowl looks fine one day but appears to be empty the next, this is a surefire sign that a blockage exists somewhere in your sewer system and that the toilets are on the verge of overflowing when flushed. Contacting a plumber as soon as you notice this issue can save you money on repairs by preventing further damage. 

You’ve Noticed a Crack in Your Home’s Foundation

Finally, if any of these symptoms are ignored, or if sewer problems go undetected for long enough, it can cause the ground around your home to become soft and pliable. Over time, the soft ground can shift, which may lead to cracks in your home’s foundation – an expensive repair that no homeowner ever wants to have to undertake. Cracked foundations can cost tens of thousands of dollars to repair, and if they are not caught in time, they can damage the home’s structure to the point that it is no longer safe to live in. 

As you can see, there are numerous signs and symptoms that can point to a serious problem in your sewer system. It’s important to be aware of them, but it’s even more important to call a professional plumber right away if you notice any of them at any point. Failing to do so can lead to serious damage to your lawn or even your home.