Broken sewer lines are not something to ignore. If your sewer line becomes blocked or damaged, you could risk property damage and sewage backup.
The sewer line is the underground pipe that carries all your wastewater from the home to the sewer system. A broken sewer line can be characterized by multiple slow drains, foul odors in the house, mold and mildew in basements, and increased pest presence.
It can be difficult to spot plumbing-related problems, especially if they are underground. This list will help you determine if your sewer line is broken or more serious.
Slow drains
Slow draining fixtures can often be a sign of a simple blockage that can easily be fixed with a plunger, drain snake, or other tools.
If you notice that more than one fixture is draining slowly, it could be a sign that your plumbing system is blocked. This is usually the sewer line.
Strange odor, or gassy scent
Your nose will detect a broken sewer line. You should not smell any type of smell coming out your drains. You could smell toxic sewer gas slowly but surely making its path into your home.
Mildew and mold
Mold and mildew can quickly spread throughout your home, particularly in the basement. This could be caused by a water backup or sewage backup from a damaged sewer line.
Crawlers, critters
Is there an unusual increase in rodents and bugs? This could indicate a broken sewer line. Many rodents live in the sewers.
They can also make their home in your home by getting through any cracks in the sewer. Insects also see stagnant water as their ideal breeding ground. This allows insects to multiply quickly.