Your sewer line is a critical component of your plumbing system. It transports wastewater from your home to the city's sewer system. However, like all parts of a house, it can deteriorate and fail over time. Here are five signs that you might need a complete sewer line replacement.

1. Frequent Backups and Blockages

If you're experiencing regular backups in your toilets, sinks, or bathtub drains, it's a clear sign that something is seriously wrong with your sewer line. While occasional clogs are normal, frequent blockages could indicate a major problem like tree roots infiltrating the sewer line or severe pipe damage.

2. Foul Odors

Noticing a persistent sewer gas odor in or around your home is another sign of a broken sewer line. If your sewer line is functioning correctly, it should be airtight, except for the vent stacks on your roof, which allow sewer gases to escape outside. If you smell sewage inside your home, it could mean that there are cracks or breaks in your sewer line.

3. Soggy or Indented Lawn

As wastewater leaks from your sewer line, it can saturate your yard, leading to soggy, extra green patches of grass or indents in your lawn where the ground has sunk. This is known as a "sewer leak" and is a strong indicator that your sewer line needs to be replaced.

4. Foundation Cracks and Sinkholes

In severe cases, a leaking sewer line can cause structural damage to your home. As the ground underneath your home becomes saturated, it can lead to foundation cracks or even sinkholes.

5. Rodent or Insect Infestation

Rodents and insects are attracted to the odors of a leaking sewer line. If you've noticed an increase in the presence of pests around your home, it could be due to a broken sewer line.
If you're experiencing any of these issues, contact a professional plumber right away. Ignoring the problem won't make it go away; in fact, it will only get worse and potentially more costly to fix.

A professional can conduct a sewer camera inspection to determine the exact cause and location of the issue. Depending on the severity of the problem, they may recommend either repairing the damaged section of the sewer line or replacing the entire line.
Sewer line replacement can be a significant investment, but it's crucial for maintaining the functionality and safety of your home. Modern techniques like trenchless sewer repair can replace your sewer line without digging up your entire yard, making the process less disruptive and often more cost-effective.

Contact a professional to learn more about complete sewer line replacement.