When something goes wrong with your home’s plumbing, it can be tempting to brush it off or hope it fixes itself. However, one thing you definitely don't want to ignore is a damaged sewer line. This critical part of your plumbing is responsible for carrying wastewater from your home to the city’s sewer system. If it fails, it can lead to costly repairs, health hazards, and messy, unpleasant situations.

But how do you know when it's time to replace your sewer line? Here are five key warning signs that suggest your sewer line may need replacing.

1. Frequent Backups

One of the clearest indications of a damaged or failing sewer line is regular backups in your home’s plumbing. If you find yourself frequently using a plunger on your toilets or drains, it’s a sign that something deeper within your system could be blocked or damaged. A minor clog here and there isn’t unusual, but if it's happening more than normal, it could be time to call a professional to check your sewer line.

2. Foul Odors Around Your Home

The smell of sewage is unmistakable—and it’s a smell you don’t want lingering in or around your house. If you’re noticing foul odors that smell like rotten eggs or raw sewage, this could mean that the sewer line has a leak or break. Healthy sewer lines are sealed tight, keeping odors and waste contained. If a crack or break develops, it can release harmful gases into your home or yard.

3. Slow Drains

Is your shower draining slower than usual? Do your sinks seem to take forever to clear? Slow drains could be another signal that your sewer line is deteriorating. Often, this is caused by tree roots infiltrating the pipes or a blockage forming deeper down in the sewer line. If multiple drains in your home are slow, it’s unlikely to be just a simple clog, and a professional inspection might be needed.

4. Unexplained Lawn Patches

A broken sewer line can cause unusual patches of grass to thrive in your yard. Wastewater acts as a fertilizer, so if you notice an extra lush or green patch of grass in one spot, it could indicate that your sewer line is leaking below ground. On the flip side, soggy areas or standing water in the yard can also be a clue. This could be a sign of a major leak that requires immediate attention.

5. Foundation Cracks or Sinkholes

The worst-case scenario with a damaged sewer line is when it causes serious structural issues to your home. If you notice cracks in your foundation, unexplained shifting, or even small sinkholes forming in your yard, the sewer line could be to blame. The leaking water erodes the soil, destabilizing your home’s foundation over time.

When to Call a Professional

If you're seeing one or more of these warning signs, it's time to act. Even if the damage isn’t severe yet, waiting too long could lead to larger problems and more expensive repairs down the road. A professional plumber can inspect your sewer line with a camera and determine whether a replacement is necessary. In some cases, a repair might suffice, but if the damage is extensive, a full replacement could be the best option.

Final Thoughts

Maintaining your sewer line is crucial to keeping your home’s plumbing in top shape and preventing costly repairs. If you’re experiencing frequent backups, unpleasant odors, slow drains, or other unusual signs, don’t hesitate to reach out to a professional plumber for an inspection. Early detection and repair are the best ways to avoid a messy—and expensive—disaster!

Need help? At We Do Re-Pipes, we specialize in sewer line inspections and replacements. Contact us today to schedule your free consultation and ensure your plumbing system is running smoothly!